Last night, Church Street in Twickenham burst into life; full of Christmas spirit. The road was filled with vendors including Christmas crafts, hot drinks, crepes and candy floss. Hot chocolate, coffee and mulled ciders were popular drinks. Mice pies, cakes and many other seasonal treats were available from the various vendors. Knitted goods to keep warm in the cold, tress, wreaths and other festive classes were available. The bright lights streamed between the buildings and rainbow glow torches illuminated the night sky. Christmas carols were sung, with leaflets handed out with the song lyrics on them.

            There also was a lot more to do then just shopping and eating. Families were clearly welcome, and children were definitively catered for. Balloons soared high in the sky, each belonging to a happy child. There was a carousel and mini train to ride on. Father Christmas was present to help spread holiday cheer.

            The culmination of the event was the lighting of the grand Christmas tree in the town center. The mayor was present to celebrate the evening. The flashing lights of an ambulance and the loud sound of its siren quickly accompanied the bright lights. All stood in awe of its beauty, despite the cold.

            Also on Church Street, the tree light up event will be followed by French food on the weekend of December 5, 6 and 7th. The weekend of December 19, 20 and 21st will include an Italian food market.  This Friday, November 28th, will be a Christmas parade in Hampton Hill, celebrating fifty years since the first holiday parade in 1961.