Thatcham Christmas in light switch on tonight

Wrap up warm and get to the town centre for Thatcham's Christmas Light Switch On even tonight.

The Warming up to Christmas event, sponsored by Elysium Health Care and Newbury Building Society, will bring entertainment, street food and a festive farm to the town.

The fun will start at 4.30pm with a mix of attractions for all ages from gift and community stalls for adults to a steam engine and treasure hunt for children.

On stage there is a mix of panto from KATS, dance from MF Dance and Dance with Sonia, Carols from St Mary’s Church Choir and live music from Beyond the Sons – even award-winning entertainer Ryan Upton will make an appearance.

Thatcham mayor Jeff Brooks said: “Thatcham has a vibrant community spirit, with many of the stalls and content local to provide a flavour that is unique to Thatcham, and I am looking forward to this festive occasion with relish.”

Of course, the star of the show, Father Christmas, will be in attendance and, courtesy of Newbury Lions, he will be on his sleigh ready to greet children.

The lights will be switched on at 7pm with a countdown of snowflakes and pyros, by the mayor of Thatcham and, if he’s not too busy reading wish lists, a guest appearance from Father Christmas.

Entertainment will run until 8pm, with many local retailers staying open late.

The festive fun will take place in the town centre, beneath the sparkling lights and 30-foot Christmas tree.

There will also be plenty of time to take a stroll through the town centre to find your favourite in the Best Dressed Christmas Window competition held by Thatcham Town Council and the Newbury Weekly News.