Festive lights are turned on (From Barry And District News)

Festive lights are turned on

HIGH Street's big Christmas switch-on lit up the sky in style last Friday.

Scores of locals gathered at the popular shopping centre to see competition winners Joanne Williams and Shannay Cuschieri turn on the almost legendary lights.

The girls were joined by local dignataries such as Jane Hutt MP and Barry Town Mayor Jane Andrews. Santa flew in from Lapland.

Russ the giant clown from the Pick and Mix Circus and Mr T Ricks entertained the children by making model balloons.

The Rotary Club sold light sabres and other goodies whilst many stores also opened their doors for the big occasion.

Copperfields once again sold hot dogs, burgers and hot drinks from outside the restaurant.

Joint owner of the business, Paula Harvey said: "We have done this for two years now and we have been busy again this year.

"It is a good start to the Christmas period. When my children were younger we brought them down to see the lights turned on."

Her views were echoed by the many locals present.

Angharad Hughes of Prince Street said: "We come here every year for the children.

"They enjoy the lights and the entertainment but it's a shame there weren't more stalls this year."

Even Santa was pleased. He said: "It's great to see the kids each year. And it was a good turn out. At first it looked a bit sparse but the street soon filled up."

Claire Daniel of Willfield, Barry said: "It's a tradition to come to see the lights each year. It's certainly better than last year because they were all switched on without a hitch. And last time the lights were late because there was a problem."

Chairman of the High Street traders and owner of Allsta Motors, Allun Jones said: "For the fist time ever both sets of lights lit without a hitch. I was over the moon with how it went and there was an extremely good turn out."