Hexham Christmas Lights switched on to delighted crowds

The festive season officially began on Friday, November 22 as the Christmas lights were switched on in Hexham.

(L) Mayor Derek Kennedy, Father Christmas, Tobias Zimmerman from Egger and Cllr Suzanne Fairless-Aitken at the Sele bandstand (Image: Natalie Finnigan) The event saw festive music, Christmas food and drink, late opening from lots of the town’s shops, and the launch of a new Elf Trail. The event was organised by Hexham Town Council with Hexham Community Partnership.

Crowds waiting to see the lights turned on in the Sele park (Image: Natalie Finnigan) Father Christmas arrived at 5.30pm on his sleigh with support from Tynedale Lions and Wylam Garage to delighted crowds in the Sele Park.

READ MORE: New show celebrating North East music coming to Queen's Hall

Crowds at the Christmas light switch on in the Sele park (Image: Natalie Finnigan) Prudhoe Community Band played festive tunes under The Shambles.

Father Christmas at the Hexham Christmas tree (Image: Suzanne Fairless-Aitken) The Hextol Foundation charity sold mulled wine, mince pies and festive bakes in the Market Place and Hexham Abbey opened its doors for carols and hot chocolate.  

Mayor Derek Kennedy addressing crowds with Father Christmas (Image: Natalie Finnigan) Cllr Suzanne Fairless-Aitken said: "Really pleased with the Christmas lights this year, though I'd always like to have more. The park lights have been simplified after the blue-white tree wraps finally failed last year after successive autumn storms.

Mayor Derek Kennedy with Tobias Zimmerman from Egger, which donated the town's Christmas tree (Image: Natalie Finnigan) "They were also not very tree-friendly and the warm white festoons are classic. We've added a few more surprises, continued down Market Street and the trees in Priestpopple. The Tyne bridge lights are now wrapped with twinkly lights after winds tore some of the motifs down last year. 

Prudhoe Community Band performed under The Shambles (Image: Natalie Finnigan) "There's nothing quite like fairy lights in dark nights to lift the spirits. I hope everyone enjoys them as much as I do. If any businesses would like to sponsor extra lights next year please do get in touch with me or the town clerk at hexhamtowncouncil.gov.uk."