Essex Town Preparing for Christmas Lights Switch-on

Mon, 14 Nov 2011

Residents of Brentwood in Essex will build up to the annual Christmas lights switch-on event with a day of festive season fun and entertainment.

On Saturday 26 November, a range of activities will take place in the High Street, Baytree Centre and Crown Street from noon, including a children’s Christmas treasure hunt.

Church members will and out free mince pies, and will also lead a candlelit parade in the High Street.

Crown Street traders and businesses will host a special market and donkeys from Brentwood’s Hopefield Animal Sanctuary will also be in the historic street to create a stable scene before the Xmas lights are turned on at 6pm.

This year Marks and Spencer is donating 3,000 reusable ‘goody’ bags for visitors, which will be packed with special offers, flyers and prizes from local businesses and organisations.

Cllr Mark Reed, chairman of Brentwood Council’s business, community and culture panel, said: "Last year, in reaction to the budget consultation, people said ‘don’t spend money on this’ so we tried to cut it back, but on the night it was when the roads were impassable, so people were not going to turn up."

"This year promises to have something for every member of the family, thanks to a fantastic effort from all the partners involved working together with the council. There will certainly be plenty for the whole family to enjoy."