Local singing soprano takes part in festive lights switch
on
(Date of issue: Monday, 3 November 2008)
Local singing sensation, Andrew Johnston, will be guest of
honour at this year’s Carlisle Christmas lights switch-on (Sunday,
16 November).
Carlisle’s school boy soprano, shot to fame when he finished in
third place on this year’s Britain’s Got Talent and will join the
Mayor of Carlisle, Cllr Jacquelyne Geddes to trigger a galaxy of
Christmas lights in the city centre at 5.30pm.
The popstar’s appearance will follow on his successful
appearance at a Carlisle Mayoral Charity concert on Sunday, 19
October. The Sands Centre event was a tribute to Carlisle
youth.
Andrew said:
"I was really pleased to be taking part in my
home city’s lights switch on celebrations. It’ll be great to sing
before a Carlisle crowd. I had a lot of support from local people
when I was taking part in Britain’s Got Talent and the lights
switch on will give me a chance to pass on my thanks."
The lights switch-on, arranged by Carlisle City Council, the
News & Star and CFM Radio will begin Carlisle's countdown to
Christmas. As part of the build-up to the event, entertainment will
be provided in the city centre from 2pm onwards.
The final preparations for Carlisle’s Christmas are well
underway. A sparkling ten metre tall tree will be the city's
centrepiece and will include colourful decorations and lights. The
feature is set to dazzle and delight and is yet another attraction
to savour as part of Carlisle city centre's overall
illuminations.
Organised by Carlisle City Council, the city's decorations will
also include illuminations around key city landmarks - including
the Citadel and a traditional Nativity scene in the city
centre.
Following last year's success, the Carlisle Christmas Market,
held in the city centre, will be in place between Wednesday 3
December and Sunday 7 December. The Christmas Market will operate
alongside the city’s Victorian Market Hall, who will be staging a
Christmas Party on Saturday 6 December.
A Christmas Carol Parade will also be held on Thursday 11
December. Starting at 6.30pm from the Cathedral this popular event
will wind through the city centre to be followed by a Hog Roast in
the historic Tithe Barn. Tickets are available from the Tourist
Information Centre.
Carlisle City Council Leader, Cllr Mike Mitchelson said:
"The lights switch-on will mark the start of the
festivities and we’re thrilled that Andrew can join us celebrate
our sparkling event. He’s one of our local heroes and as we’re
encouraging local residents to sample what’s on offer on their
doorsteps, it’s fitting that he joins in with our countdown to
Christmas."
Santa will be making a visit to Carlisle’s Talkin
Tarn this Christmas. A Green Grotto will be open in the
Alex Boathouse between 11am and 3pm on the following days:
- Saturday 6 - Sunday 7 December,
- Saturday 13 - Sunday 14 December
- Saturday 20 - Sunday 21 December
As well as meeting Santa and receiving a small gift, there will
also be the chance for local children to post their letter to
Lapland. Entry is £2.50 per child.
Lanercost Priory is hosting a ‘Magical
Christmas Tree Festival’ this festive season. The ancient
Augustinian Priory is set to be the perfect backdrop for a
spectacular collection of creatively decorated Christmas Trees.
Entry is £6 per person and the event will be held between:
- 10am - 9pm on Friday 12 December
- 10am - 6pm on Saturday 13 December and Sunday 14 December.
Tullie House
Museum & Art Gallery has a packed programme of
activities this festive season. A Christmas Fun Day will be held on
Saturday 13 December and will include free fun workshops, for all
the family to enjoy.