Plans well under sleigh

PLANS for Ely's Christmas lights switch-on are well under way and will feature a Santa's sleigh simulator ride, entertainment and plenty of stalls selling Christmas goodies.

The event, on Friday, December 1, is being organised by City of Ely Council and the Ely Perspective, and will again feature the popular open-top bus tours of the lights, provided by City Sightseeing.

Entertainment before the grand switch-on at 6.30pm will take the form of Ely Imps and Chequer Studios, and choirs will be singing around the streets.

Santa will be making an appearance, and Star Radio will be introducing some exciting acts, games and competitions on stage with the Breakfast Crew.

Chairman of the Ely Perspective, Philip Eden, said: "Many shops and premises are likely to remain open offering festive fare for the crowds - please support them well.

"There are collecting boxes in many locations - please give generously to the cause, all of which is manned by volunteers."

He said organisers had received support from a number of local organisations, including East Cambridgeshire District Council, Ely Hereward Rotary Club and the Ely Traders' Association.

Fore Hill and High Street will be closed to traffic from 4-8pm.

- We have already started receiving entries for our Christmas art competition. Winners in each age category will get to throw the switch with Ely mayor John Ison on the big day on December 1.

To take part, children must paint or draw a picture (maximum size A3) based around the theme "What Christmas Means to Me".

There will be two age categories, six and under and seven-10.

INFO: Entries can be left at The Ely Standard, or posted to us at 38 Market Street, Ely, CB7 4LS. Alternatively, scanned entries can be e-mailed to ian.ray@archant.co.uk - please write the name of the child, the name of a parent or guardian, address, daytime contact details and age category on the back of the picture.