On behalf of the Christmas Lights Group in Pickering I would like to thank the many hundreds of people who came into town to support this growing annual event.

There was a fantastic atmosphere through the afternoon, which built to crescendo with the arrival of Santa and the switch-on itself.

The entertainment was superb and huge thanks to the York Minster Strays, David Swann and Stape Silver Band.

Again the hog roast meat from Cedar Barn was wonderful and the mulled wine was described as “mind boggling” by many repeat customers. Special thanks here to The White Swan and Feast for their help with a new home for our nibble and tipple brigade.

Several shops stayed open later and offered discount deals and it is great to see business involvement growing.

Finally, an enormous thank you to Ryedale Lions for bringing Santa into town on his sleigh and then helping in his grotto. Also, of course, thanks to Santa for staying until every picture is taken and every child is seen.

The efforts of the group through the past 12 months have seen new motifs in the town and the lights extended, a process we intend to continue with our thoughts now turning to the Ropery and the Beckside.

There are learning points every year and we will look to pick up on these and to enhance next year’s event, so thank you all for your support and we look forward to next year when we do it all again. If you are interested in joining the group, speak to Matthew at Television House, Kath at the Pet Store or phone me on 01751 473463.

We hope you enjoyed Saturday and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

William Oxley, Pickering Christmas Lights Group