Christmas has come early in Hucknall as the lights are switched on

Last year the Christmas lights were switched on at the highly anticipated Christmas Festivals, however, due to the pandemic, these events could not be held this year.

The council installed the popular 3D feature lights for the first time last year and this year the snowman, now in Sutton, and polar bear, now in Hucknall, have been joined by a new addition, two penguins, which were the first to be switched on.

The festivities were kicked off in Kirkby with chairman of Ashfield District Council, Coun Andy Meakin, who switched on the lights with the help of a cheeky elf, and this was followed by the switch ons in Sutton and Hucknall.

The light switch ons were filmed and posted to the council Facebook page for everyone to enjoy.

Coun Meakin said: “It is disappointing that we couldn’t host our usual Christmas Festivals this year, however we still wanted to create a special atmosphere in our town centres.

"By switching the lights on earlier than usual, we are hoping to bring a smile to everyone’s faces, and bring the festive spirit to Ashfield.

“We have a few more Christmas treats for residents, so keep your eye on our social media pages and the website.”

People took to the council’s Facebook page to say thank you for the early Christmas cheer.

Pat Rogers said: “Brill and thank you to everyone involved.”

James Blagden said: “Brilliant, well done to everyone involved.”

Amanda Best said: “I love this.

" The cheeky elf is great and what a brilliant effort by everyone, thank you.”

Laura Walters said: “All of them look lovely. Well done everyone.”

And you could be in with the chance of winning £50 of High Street shopping voucher by entering Ashfield District Council’s Christmas Selfie competition.

You just have to share your photos of you with the Snowman, Charlie the Polar Bear or the Penguins on the council’s Facebook or Twitter page or email them to [email protected] before January 3, for a chance to win.

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