Brave eight-year-old chosen to switch on Loughborough’s Christmas lights

He was surprised by the news at his school assembly.

A child who helped save his mum's life has been chosen to ‘Light up Loughborough’ and switch on the town’s Christmas lights in front of thousands of people.

Jacob Varley-Issitt, from Loughborough,  stood out to judges for his quick thinking and bravery in calling an ambulance when his mum Hollie collapsed suddenly from septic shock. 

The news was told to Jacob by the Mayor Charnwood, Cllr David Northage and Cllr Jennifer Tillotson at a surprise assembly at his school.

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Jacob was entered into the competition by his grandmother Tracey.

Tracey said: “Jacob was such a brave boy. His mummy wouldn't be alive today if it wasn't for him, so I’m so happy I entered him into the competition, and even happier that he’s won this opportunity. He’s our superhero.”

Jacob’s mum Hollie, said: “Jacob is a star and I couldn’t be happier for him.

“He’ll never know how grateful I am that he called the ambulance for me, but he knows how proud I am of him for being such a brilliant boy. It’s going to be fantastic when he switches on the lights.”

Jacob will be following in the footsteps of his dad when he switches on the Christmas lights, as his dad Chris, had the privilege back in 1988.

Chris said: “I was shocked but so pleased to hear that Jacob had won the competition, and it brought back a lot of great memories.

“He’s following in my footsteps and that fills me with pride. He’ll do an amazing job and I can’t wait to be there to see it.”

The Christmas lights will be switched on in Loughborough on Friday, November 28.