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20
Nov 2022
Hundreds gather for Ripon's Christmas lights switch-on
Hundreds gathered on Ripon Market Square yesterday evening as the city council signalled the beginning of the festive season with its Christmas lights switch-on.
With heavy rain relenting by early afternoon, the crowd, largely made up of family groups, grew throughout the day, visiting the square to see Santa and his reindeer and enjoy the free fairground rides and musical entertainment.
Families met with Santa and his reindeer Alfie, Dancer and Izzy
Among the early visitors to see Santa were two-year-old Taylor, her 12-year-old brother Toby and their mother Catherine (pictured above).
The three free fairground rides proved popular throughout the afternoon and into the evening
Live musical entertainment was provided from 2pm by local singer-songwriter Freddie Cleary, and tribute acts Tamsin and Kaylie and Jersey Beyond (pictured below)
By 5pm when the Mayor of Ripon Cllr Sid Hawke performed the switch-on, the large crowd was in festive mood, joining with him in singing We Wish You a Merry Christmas.
The Christmas lights on Kirkgate
Among those hoping that Ripon's traders have a happy and successful festive season is city council leader Cllr Andrew Williams.
He told the Stray Ferret:
He added:
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