02/12/2016
A real tree for Shipley!
All set to be another dazzling day full of fun and Christmas cheer, the Shipley Town Centre Partnership have managed a huge coup in securing a real tree as the centrepiece for Shipley’s Christmas Launch and Lights Switch-on this Saturday, December 3rd.
Following a busy and festive programme of music, entertainment and activities throughout the day, the town will be illuminated at 4.30pm as the Christmas lights are switched on by Glitzen the magical silver reindeer, leading the crowd in the traditional countdown to Christmas.
John Lambert, a spokesman for Shipley Town Centre Partnership who organise the Christmas Launch, said: “The Town Centre Partnership have worked exceedingly hard this year to provide Market Square with a real Christmas tree.
“When we started planning this year’s launch we had a long discussion about what made Christmas special for us, as individuals, as families, as communities and as a town. A real tree was the one thing we felt was really important. Everyone connected with it emotionally and we wanted it to stand out as the heart and centrepiece of a family Christmas.
“Through the tireless work of committee members and the support of local businesses and individuals we are delighted to be able to place a real Christmas tree into Market Square and in so doing really help imbue the town centre with a magical festive spirit.”
Always a seasonal favourite, the Salvation Army Band will kick off proceedings with a programme of merry tunes throughout the morning with the afternoon bringing performances from the Bradford Voices and the Believe in Shipley community choirs plus a special ensemble of local children and young singers assembled for the day.
John Lambert said: “The Christmas Launch with provide the perfect opportunity for everyone to enjoy some festive entertainment and really get into the Christmas spirit. We are especially thrilled to be working alongside so many local groups and organisations this year. Not only is the event for Shipley but it is made by Shipley.”
In addition to their singing, Believe in Shipley, a network of churches and Christian congregations across Shipley and Saltaire will be running an afternoon stall offering free mince pies, drinks and refreshments as crowds start to assemble for the light switch-on.
From 3pm, Believe in Shipley are inviting families to come along to their fun craft workshop where children can make a Christingle which can then be lit in the build up to the switch-on.
Star of the event, Glitzen the magical silver reindeer, will also be joined by various festive friends entertaining crowds and providing photo opportunities throughout the day.
• The Shipley Christmas Launch is this Saturday, December 3rd with events running throughout the day. The official countdown and light switch-on will take place at 4.30pm around the real Christmas tree in Market Square.
• This year’s Shipley Christmas Market will run on Friday, December 9th and Saturday, December 10th.
