The festive season arrived with a bang last night as the lights were switched on in Eastleigh Town Centre marking the official start of Christmas.

 

Fireworks illuminated the night sky as the Deputy Mayor of Eastleigh, Councillor Pamela Holden-Brown and Santa Clause got the crowd to count down the switch-on.

 

When asked her thoughts on how the event went the Deputy Mayor said: “I think it was really wonderful, I not been to one of these before but I thought it was really very good”.

 

Visitors to the yearly event enjoyed seasonal entertainment with Santa’s procession and a parade through the town centre accompanied with a steel band; kids and adults also participated in helping to raise money for Eastleigh Caravel Committee, who helped make the event possible.

 

“It was really nice” said Jean Stevens who travelled from Bishopstoke to watch the parade, “Last year was a bit of a disappointment but this year was a pleasant surprise”.

 

Adults and children happily skated on the synthetic ice rink made for the occasion whilst tasting the festive foods available; visitors were also entertained by Thornden School band as they played traditional Christmas carols.

 

 

The event is sponsored by one of Hampshire’s leading radio stations Wave 105fm and the Hampshire Chronicle; other sponsors include the Swan Centre, Picador Cars and Prysmian.