Lights add a sparkle to Marsden and Holmfirth

Dec 2 2002 By Tony Gardner, The Huddersfield Daily Examiner

IT WAS an evening of light entertainment for the crowds who turned out for the beginning of Christmas in Marsden and Holmfirth on Saturday.

In Marsden the fun got under way at 5pm with music from Marsden Junior Band, Marsden Unity Choir and Marsden Silver Band.

Marsden resident Neil Haigh was chosen to be the event's official compere and had the honour of switching on the lights at the Mechanics' Hall at 6pm.

Other attractions included late-night shopping, jugglers, face painting and a fireworks display.

Colne Valley Lions did their bit to make sure Santa Claus got to the event and handed lollipops out to children.

Marsden Scouts held a collection on the night which will go towards the cost of next year's Christmas lights in the village.

Meanwhile, driving rain failed to dampen the Christmas spirit as local businesses, organisations and residents made Holmfirth's lights switch-on a night to remember.

A parade which included Hade Edge Brass Band, the Air Training corps, vintage cars and Tetley shire horses marked the start of the event.

They left Holmfirth Fire Station in a procession round the town's streets before Last Of The Summer Wine actor Tom Owen switched on the illuminations.

The event was organised by Holme Valley Business Association, which is leading an appeal for £24,000 to pay for new lights.

The present ones have had more than 20 years of service.