Hundreds of people turned out to watch Burnham’s world BMX champion Liam Phillips and BBC Somerset presenter Emma Britton switch on Burnham-On-Sea’s Christmas lights on Saturday (November 23rd).
The switch-on included an all-day outdoor Christmas street market and an afternoon of seasonal music outside the Victoria Hotel in Victoria Street.
Organised by Burnham Chamber of Trade, the event included performances by St Andrew’s School Choir, Coastline Singers, Curtain Call and Berrow Bells plus a special visit by Father Christmas, who arrived on one of Burnham’s hovercrafts!
Burnham’s Mayor Martin Cox, MP Tessa Munt and the town’s Carnival Queen and Princess also gave their support.
The successful event was overseen by the Chamber of Trade with the support of Burnham Lions and Burnham Town Team and was compered by radio presenter Ian Burrage.
BBC Somerset’s Emma Britton told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “It was a great honour to be asked to switch on the lights – it was great to see such a super turnout and a real festive atmosphere.”
Liam Phillips added: “Burnham means everything to me and it was great to be invited along to perform the switch-on. I was really impressed at the warmth of the community spirit on show.”
Burnham Chamber of Trade Chairman Mark Newman added: “We’re delighted that such a great number of people came out and got the town’s Christmas celebrations off to such a super start. We have had great support from many groups and individuals and thank everyone who helped us with the event.”
He also thanked key backers including Rob Davey Electricals, Burnham and Highbridge Town Council, The Ritz Cinema, Martin and Dee Lloyd at The Victoria, and the Chamber of the Trade’s Deryk Monaghan, Alex Turco, Bev Milner Simonds and Rhonda Mills plus Burnham Lions’ Greg Kelloway.
Click here for video of the 2013 Christmas Lights Switch-On
