The sky above Stafford was lit up at the weekend as more than ten thousand people packed into the town centre to see the Christmas lights turned on. 

Live music got the big Christmas show underway before the lights were switched on by the Mayor of Stafford Borough, Councillor Philip Leason MBE - and followed by a spectacular firework display. 

The event on Saturday (19th) is always seen as the traditional start of the countdown to the big day and residents, families and visitors flocked to Stafford with stalls, street theatre and fairground attractions lining the streets of the town. 

The day was organised by Freedom Leisure on behalf of Stafford Borough Council. 

The events on stage kicked off at 3pm with Stafford’s Harvest Centre Gospel Choir and included a musical set from The Gatehouse Youth Theatre, live music from the Cartoon Kings and stars from this year’s pantomime, Cinderella, getting the audience in a festive mood. 

Councillor Leason said it was a privilege to be switching on the lights. He was joined on stage by Father Christmas as the town was lit up at 5pm including the 40ft Christmas Tree in the Market Square.  

Hundreds of fireworks were then launched from the top of the Guildhall Centre before the Cartoon Kings returned to the stage for a second set and to bring the event to a close. 

Councillor Carolyn Trowbridge, Cabinet Member for Leisure at Stafford Borough Council, said: “It was amazing. I thought last year was brilliant but I’m sure this topped it. And it was wonderful to see the smiling faces of so many children and families as they enjoyed some great free entertainment in our fantastic county town.” 

Press Release No 5972