Ashington's Christmas Light Switch-On Draws Over 1,000 Residents Despite Challenging Weather
Community Spirit Shines Through as Festive Celebration Marks Start of Holiday Season
Ashington Town Council is delighted to report the tremendous success of yesterday's Christmas Light Switch-On and Fairies & Elves Themed Lantern Parade, which brought the community together for a magical start to the festive season despite challenging weather conditions.
Outstanding Community Turnout
The event saw an exceptional turnout, with over 1,000 residents gathering for the main light switch-on ceremony along Station Road. The good attendance throughout the evening demonstrated the strong community spirit that makes Ashington such a special place, with families undeterred by the weather conditions.
Earlier in the day, approximately 400 adults and children enjoyed free Christmas crafts and activities at the Masonic Hall from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, taking full advantage of the wide range of festive workshops on offer.
Community Support and Hospitality
A particular highlight was the generous hospitality provided to young attendees, with 180 children receiving free snack boxes. These were prepared by Masonic volunteers, with donations of pop and Cup a Soup generously provided by Ashington Asda. This community collaboration perfectly embodied the spirit of the season.
Enchanting Entertainment and Parade
The evening's festivities, hosted by the ever-popular Paul Skerritt from 4:00 PM, featured outstanding performances from local singer Clare Drysdale, Helix Arts with their very talented performers, and YMCA performers from the Sound Futures programme.
The magical Fairies and Elves themed lantern parade set off from outside the Masonic Hall at 5:15 PM, creating a spectacular sight as it wound its way to the main stage area. The parade was followed by a special switch-on blessing from Rev Sam and Rev Chris, Ashington Churches Together, and a joyful community sing-along. All wonderfully hosted by Master of Ceremonies Paul Skerritt.
A special moment came when Pudsey Bear selected the best dressed fairy and elf from among the parade participants, who then had the honour of helping to switch on the Christmas lights at approximately 6:15 PM.
Partnership and Funding
This year's activities formed part of Northumberland County Council's Animating Ashington Autumn/Winter Festival, funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and North East Combined Authority, alongside Ashington Town Council's events budget.
Heartfelt Thanks to Community Partners
Ashington Town Council would like to express sincere gratitude to all those who made this event possible:
Venue and Hospitality: The Masonic Hall and Members for hosting the Christmas activities and preparing the snack boxes.
Entertainment and Activities: Hennie Hedgehog author Chris Elliot; Sam from Jelly Beanz Facepainting; Ashington Co-op; Reiverdale Scout Group; Mortal Fools; William Purves; RVS Social Care; Asda Ashington; Wansbeck Community Links; Wansbeck Valley Foodbank; ESCAPE Family Support; Climate Action Wansbeck; Ashington Town FC; Groundwork NE Ltd; The Sewing Machine Guy; Ashington Swimming Club; Northumberland College; Friends of Ashington Community Woods; Ashington Veterans and Elders Institute and Koast Radio's Shaun and Graeme for creating the festive atmosphere with Christmas songs.
Event Support: Sandancer Medical Ltd for event first aid cover; Guerilla Event & PA Hire for providing the stage; Morpeth Lions with Santa and his sleigh; and Northumberland County Council Community Safety Team.
Special Performers: All the children who took part in the lantern parade; Northumbrian piper Bev Palin with the historic interpreters dressed as WW1 soldiers preparing to take part in the historic Christmas Day football match; and the wonderful stilt walkers and accordion playing ant from Neighbourhood Watch Stilts International & Soznak.
Dedicated Volunteers and Staff: Special thanks to volunteer stewards Andrew, Gary, Neil, Helen, Brian, Caroline, Helen and Amanda for their invaluable support throughout the event. And the Town Council team Alan, Gary, Mark, Ryan, Sarah, and Sharon, who pout it all together.
Filming & Photography: Roy from Ashington Camera Club and Jimmy of Luk Luk Productions. Watch out for the video of the event coming soon.
"We're absolutely thrilled with how the community came together for this magical celebration," said Cllr Mark Purvis. "Despite the weather, the turnout was wonderful, and the joy and creativity on display truly showcased what makes Ashington such a special place to live. We're grateful to all our volunteers, partners, and residents who made this event such a success."
Photos courtesy of Ashington Camera Club
Christmas Light Switch-On 2025
