The Christmas buzz hit Marlborough like a bombshell last night as cheering crowds thronged the pavements to see the switch on of the town’s blue and white festive lights.
Scores of youngsters waved with delight as the ceremony was performed from the town hall steps, Marlborough’s Citizen of the Year, Jeremy York, alongside the Mayor, Councillor Alexander Kirk Wilson, leading the 10,9,8..countdown.
It was marred a little by the lack of a microphone so that few could hear the mayor’s words as traffic in the High Street was forced to a standstill by the throng of spectators.
“It was great to see so many people on the streets and feel the really good Christmas buzz, it was all so positive,” Paul Shimel, president of Marlborough Chamber of Commerce, told Marlborough News Online.
He watched the ceremony from outside his Specsavers business and added: “It is important that people should know that it is Marlborough town council, not the traders, who pay for the Christmas lights. They our not ours. They belong to the people.”
The Mayor, Councillor Alexander Kirk Wilson celebrates the switch-on
And even the young help the Mayor make sure that ‘many hands make light work…..’
And despite the High Street gloom enveloping the country with reports of shop chains closing as profits drop to unsustainable levels, Mr Shimel believes that Marlborough can ride the economic storm.
“Last night created a tremendous effect on the attitude of the shops, some of whom have put on excellent window displays,” he said. “There are an odd few who gripe, but everyone wants to get on with Christmas.
“And that has produced a positive buzz in the High Street, which we hope will continue during late night shopping evenings the Chamber has organised.”
The event also coincided with the opportunity for residents to see the exhibition on the proposed town hall improvements, which have also produced a positive response.
The mobile phone company Talk Talk sponsored the new display of Christmas lights on the avenue of limes outside St Mary’s Church – which can be seen by drivers entering the town.”
In a message to residents, the Mayor said: “I appeal to all residents to take the opportunity to come and see the proposals, now on exhibition, and to take part in the consultation process we have organised.
“Every household should have a leaflet, and the plans will be displayed in the town hall this week. We do honestly want to know what you think before we decide to progress a project, which has already given the town hall a smart new wheelchair -friendly entrance and an assembly room fit for purpose, complete with wide screen technology, superb sound and lighting systems for all to enjoy.”
And he added: “We all know there are dark days on the horizon, but that surely is not the moment to hide in the bunker.
“It provides the opportunity to prepare creative plans for the future, not to take fright but to invest in the way ahead. When there are storm clouds overhead you have to mend the roof, make sure the gutters and drains are working effectively — and find ways of fighting back by providing a vision we can all share in together.”