Thousands turn out for lights switch-on

Thousands of people crammed into Hinckley town centre to see the town’s annual spectacular Christmas lights switch-on on Friday night.

The switch-on was performed by the family of Isla Tansey and the Mayor of the Borough, Councillor Lynda Hodgkins. Isla’s family delighted the crowds when they announced that Team #islastones now holds the Guinness World Record for the largest number of painted stones after receiving official verification of their recording breaking attempt from Guinness.

The switch-on was followed by a fantastic firework display over St Mary’s Church, sponsored by the Borough Council and the Showman’s Guild.

There was also a full programme of entertainment taking place on stage in the Market Place, including performances from St Mary’s School, Olivia Bevington, Hinckley Choral Union, Steve Faulkner, The Drama Academy and Hastings school. Hinckley‘s Concordia Theatre pantomime cast also took centre stage.

On-stage co-ordination was provided by us Fosse 107.

In addition to the entertainment in the Market Place, town centre shops stayed open and a special Christmas market was held. 

Children had the opportunity to meet Santa in his grotto and a free Christmas crafts workshop for children also took place at the United Reformed Church as part of the event. 

The lights switch-on also coincided with the staging of the traditional Tin Hat Fair in Regent Street. 

Christmas lights car tour – reminder

Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and the Hinckley United Reformed Church invite local disabled and elderly residents to come into Hinckley to see the Christmas lights on Wednesday 4 December.

Castle Street will be opened to traffic from 6pm to 7:30pm to enable people to drive their elderly and disabled friends and relatives through the lights at their leisure, then park in Regent Street outside the United Reformed Church.

Hot drinks, mince pies and festive entertainment will be available in the United Reformed Church. No booking is required and everyone is welcome.