Burnham-On-Sea Mayor rescues Christmas lights switch-on as ITV man gets stuck in crowds

Also see: Full photo round-up of the switch-on | Video highlights of the switch-on

Published: November 25, 2006
Mayor rescues Christmas lights switch-on as ITV man gets stuck in crowds

Huge crowds flocked to Burnham-On-Sea on Saturday for the light-up of the town's new Christmas lights, leading ITV West News presenter Peter Rowell to miss the big switch-on.

ITV West presenter Peter Rowell with Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge Mayor, Eric Gill and Mayoress Gilli Kenyon-Gill

Organisers asked Burnham and Highbridge Mayor Eric Gill to do the job instead - not knowing that Mr Rowell was trying to battle his way through the crowds to get to the stage outside GW Hurleys.

On the strike of 4pm, the centre of Burnham was lit up with an impressive array of festive lights, stretching the length of the High Street as well as nearby side streets.

Talking to Burnham-On-Sea.com, Mr Rowell explained what had happened: "I was talking to a couple of the Orchard FM people on the corner of the High Street with a few minutes to go until the switch-on and was simply taken by surprise at how busy it was."

Burnham's brand new Christmas lights add a splash of festive colour to the town's High Street

"I couldn't get through the crowds to the stage in time and even tried to contact the organisers on my mobile phone but couldn't get through."

"I'm glad I was able to join the Mayor and organisers on the stage a few minutes after the switch-on and say a few words to everyone. It's been a fantastic event."

It came after a busy afternoon of entertainment. Throughout the day, an outdoor Christmas Market selling crafts, food and gifts was held along the High Street, while performers from Circus Americano wowed the crowds with their colourful acts.

Operatic singer Tim Pitman performing in the High Street in front of the new Christmas lights on Saturday

Talented local operatic singer Tim Pitman (pictured) delighted the crowds with a range of festive and operatic music.

And there was music from Sedgemoor Festive Brass Band, plus a traditional collection of carols sung by popular Burnham theatrical group, Curtain Call.

Father Christmas put in a seasonal visit, handing out free gift packs to children. And Orchard FM's Black Thunders were also on hand, with staff giving out reindeer hats.

Organisers from the Burnham-On-Sea Chamber of Trade and Commerce said they were delighted with how the day had gone.

Father Christmas with Burnham Mayor Eric Gill, Chairman of the Chamber of Trade John Edwards and Town Centre Manager Anne-Marie Spalding

Chairman John Edwards told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "We're really pleased with the whole day. It's been a great success. We were blessed with dry weather for much of the afternoon."

"Peter Rowell's late arrival didn't detract from a superb event - the size of the crowds he faced just showed how successful the afternoon has been!"

Mr Edwards also thanked all those who had helped make the switch-on a success, particularly Sedgemoor District Council, Burnham Town Council, Town Centre Manager Anne-Marie Spalding, Buncombes Electricals and Mike Ham.

Video highlights of the switch-on

Burnham-On-Sea News