Covid won't stop Higham Ferrers sparkling this Christmas

Higham Ferrers is still sparkling despite the town's annual Christmas Sparkle being cancelled.

The Higham Ferrers Sparkle has become an increasingly popular Christmas event over the years.

It is when the community comes together for a day of festive fun with a continental market, fair, and an array of entertainment on the stage before culminating in the Christmas light switch-on by the mayor.

But sadly the town's traditional Sparkle day was cancelled this year due to Covid-19.

However, on Saturday, November 21, Higham Ferrers Town Council released to Facebook and YouTube their virtual lights switch-on.

Higham Ferrers mayor Cllr Tina Reavey was joined on social media by local school children and a few other familiar faces in the town for a special countdown before the familiar warm white lights came on bringing sparkle and magic to the Market Square and High Street.

For those that have passed through the Market Square in recent days, they will have that there are a few extra Christmas treats for residents this year as well as the lights.

A Christmas tree stands proudly in the Market Square adorned at the top with a star and covering of twinkling lights.

A spokesman for the town council said: "Many towns have a Christmas tree but this year in Higham we also wanted to bring a little something extra, something unique, something to help lift spirits when so many have restrictions due to Covid, something that the community could become involved with.

"Thanks to some very creative locals we have been able to decorate the Market Square with wonderful knitted and crocheted decorations; yarn bombing has arrived with real Christmas spirit.

"The bollards to the Market Square have been covered with hand-made items, each one individual and lovingly made.

"We have so many woolly Christmas treats; Father Christmas, Snowmen, the Nativity, Crackers, Angels, Baubles, Candy Canes, bunting and more.

"Also on display we have artwork from the mayor’s Christmas card competition.

"Come and take a look at the children’s colourful drawings and Christmas messages.

"You may also spot another display we have on offer for you.

"Cast your eyes to the central window of the Town Hall and view the rolling Christmas images.

"We are extremely grateful to all those from the community who have contributed their skills and time to the Christmas decorations and to East Northants Council and our private sponsor for assistance with funding.

"A thank you also goes out to the team at Chevron Traffic Management Limited who have loaned us the digital display board for the festive period.

"From all at Higham Ferrers Town Council we wish you a safe and merry Christmas."

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