Preparations are already underway for the Annual Christmas Lights Switch On in Crossgates. The festive event takes place on 11th November at 7pm with lots going on including performances from Manston School choir, local Guides group, Breeze and a brass band. Special guests will be The Barnbow Canaries who performed recently at the West Yorkshire Playhouse. With plenty of food stalls there too, the evening looks set to be a fun family occasion.
The posters will be going up shortly to advertise the event. Local school children were asked to submit designs for the poster and the winner was Holli-Ann Jones from Manston St James Primary School – we look forward to seeing her eye-catching design that is all set to be printed by Leeds City Council!
Local Councillor Pauleen Grahame will welcome the crowds to the festivities accompanied by MP Richard Burgon. Joining them on stage this year will be the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Cllr Gerry Harper along with the four chosen ladies from the local community for the countdown and switch on that will light up Crossgates with a dazzling display of festive lights for the 7th year.
The Christmas Light switch on this year will be dedicated to the Barnbow lasses to mark the 100th anniversary of the tragic accident that took place in the munitions factory during WW1. In total 35 were killed and many survivors suffered life changing injuries.
Councillor Pauleen Grahame said “this is a wonderful time of year and we welcome everyone to come along. To dedicate this year’s festivities to the Barnbow Lasses is very special and it is because of their sacrifices and that of many others throughout the WW1 that we are able to come together as a community and enjoy such events. The Grand finale of spectacular fireworks this year will be in remembrance of this.”
Funding for the event has been provided by the Outer East Committee.
