Alton's Christmas lights were switched on by the town's very own MasterChef 2023 winner Chariya Khattiyot on Friday evening.<br />Chariya, better known as 'Cherry' locally, was accompanied by the cast of Pumpkin Pantos' Christmas production, Beauty and the Beast, adding a touch of theatrical magic to the celebration.<br />The Assembly Rooms served as the central hub for the festivities, creating a lively atmosphere and attracting a large crowd.<br />The event kicked off at 3pm and lasted until 7pm, providing ample time for families to enjoy a range of activities either side of the switch-on at 5pm.<br />Younger children had the opportunity to visit Father Christmas and his elf in a festive grotto, where they received free gifts.<br />A magical letterbox allowed them to send their Christmas wish lists directly to the North Pole, with diligent elves ensuring the messages reached Santa.<br />A giant Christmas tree and illuminated sleigh and reindeer on the Assembly Rooms' lawn offered festive family photo opportunities.<br />While funfair rides from John Searle Family Funfairs added an extra element of excitement for the younger attendees.<br />The town was filled with Christmas cheer, thanks to the High Street lamp posts adorned with locally designed Christmas lights. <br />The lamp post motifs along High Street and icicle lighting in Market Square, Curtis Museum, Inwood Court, and the Assembly Rooms added to the ambiance.<br />Live performances by Tilly Lukeman, Pumpkin Pantos, Alton Rock Choir, and the Kings Pond Shanty Men entertained visitors throughout the afternoon and evening.<br />Inside the Assembly Rooms, the Luminosa choir captivated the audience with their melodious tunes.<br />The Swan featured the Alton Concert Band and Cactus Brass, contributing to the festive musical repertoire.<br />The event's success was made possible through the generosity of sponsors Rod Gaskins Ltd, P J Grace and Sons, HSDC Alton College, and bronze Christmas sponsor Alton School.
