It may have been cold, wet and windy but that couldn’t dampen the spirits of a community that turned out to see Hoole’s Christmas lights get switched on.
Hundreds braved the winter weather for the annual festive event, which was brimming with community spirit from start to finish.
Compered by the team from Dee 106.3 including presenter Gavin Matthews, the festivities which were organised by local community group Notting Hoole, included an appearance from Santa in his grotto, candy floss, mulled wine and mince pies, and performances from The City of Chester Training Band, Hoole’s Got Talent winner Wolf Chris Barnes and My Eleventh Toe.
And when Gavin and Chester the Cat from Dee 106.3 officially switched the lights on, there were loud cheers from the delighted crowd.
Later, many tweeted what a success the night had been, including Laura Hale who said: “Brilliant lights switch on, makes me so proud. Love Hoole, love sharing the joy!”
Another person wrote: “Lovely Christmas light switch on in Hoole - it’s why we love living here, amazing community spirit and support,” while Cllr Jill Houlbrook said: “Well done all the locals and businesses who worked so hard on Hoole lights to make a special evening.”
The lights switch took place just a day after voting closed for the national Great British High Street bid, in which Hoole is currently riding high in the Local Centre category.
The community is up against York and Taunton in the competition, which will see the winner win a prize pot worth £80,000, as well as expert training and tailor-made tips from Google’s training taskforce for 100 shops, bars and restaurants.
The winning team will be announced on November 30.
