Christmas has come early in Ashfield!
As a festive surprise for residents, Ashfield District Council switched on the District’s Christmas lights on Friday 20th November.
Last year the Christmas lights were switched on at the highly anticipated Christmas Festivals, however, due to the pandemic, these events could not be held this year.
The Council installed the popular 3D feature lights for the first time last year and this year the snowman (now in Sutton) and polar bear (now in Hucknall) have been joined by a new addition, two penguins, which were the first to be switched on, on Friday.
The festivities were kicked off in Kirkby with Chairman of Ashfield District Council, Cllr Andy Meakin, doing his best Love Actually impression. The lights were switched on by Cllr Meakin, with the help of a cheeky elf, and was followed by the switch ons in Sutton and Hucknall. The light switch ons were filmed and posted to the Council Facebook page for everyone to enjoy.
Cllr Andy Meakin, Chairman of Ashfield District Council, said “It is disappointing that we couldn’t host our usual Christmas Festivals this year, however we still wanted to create a special atmosphere in our town centres. By switching the lights on earlier than usual, we are hoping to bring a smile to everyone’s faces, and bring the festive spirit to Ashfield!
“We have a few more Christmas treats for residents, so keep your eye on our social media pages and the website.”
Weekend car parking will be free in all Ashfield District Council town centre carparks throughout December.