By Chris Carter - chris.carter@bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk

https://www.bishopsstortfordindependent.co.uk/news/picture-special-festive-fun-for-all-as-sawbridgeworth-switc-9341836/

The spirit of Christmas was alive and well in Sawbridgeworth on Saturday as hundreds of people flocked to the switching on of the town’s festive lights.

Visitors to the annual event could browse stalls from local businesses and community groups and join in with the seasonal entertainment. 

A funfair gave children the chance to ride on a train or the tea cups and drive mini bumper cars, and Father Christmas was in his grotto handing out sweets and checking if children had been naughty or nice!

Refreshments were available, including a barbecue at the 309 (Sawbridgeworth) Squadron air cadets’ stall and Guides and Brownies serving up hot chocolate and mulled wine. 

Many of the town’s shops were open and the newest, Churchgate Sausages, sold out of its wares long before the switch-on at 6.30pm.

The entertainment, hosted by East Herts Radio, included a Christmas sing-along with youngsters from Graham School of Dance, Youth CREATE and Diverse Performing Arts and members of Sawbridgeworth Community Choir.

Besides residents from far and wide getting into the spirit, there were guests visitors to the event, including Mario from the Super Mario Brothers, Dave the Dalek and, of course, town mayor Cllr Ruth Buckmaster, accompanied by mascot Sawbosaurus.

A crew from Sawbridgeworth Fire Station was present, selling toys and flashing light necklaces, all in aid of The Firefighters’ Charity.

At Great St Mary’s Church, a Festival of Light delighted visitors, whose comments ranged from “magical” to “stunning”.

Daniel Potter visited the event with friends from Lyon in France who said that the community spirit was “amazing”.