Christmas came early to Port Talbot with the official switch on of the Christmas lights in the Civic Square with plenty of fun and entertainment supplied by the talented local youngsters of Solar Dance, Mark Jermin Stage School and the Corus Brass Band.
Comedy favourite and star of this year’s Port Talbot pantomime Mike Doyle made a guest appearance ensuring the event had something for everyone to enjoy.
Local radio stations The Wave and Swansea Sound supplied all the great Christmas tunes hosted live on stage by Breakfast Show presenters Kevin Johns and Badger. On Friday 12th at 6.00pm the twinkling lights lit up the town centre with Mayor of Neath Port Talbot Cllr Lella James doing the honours and pressing the button that officially welcomed Christmas festivities 2010 to Port Talbot.
Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council Cllr. Ali Thomas, said, ” Christmas is a time for family and where better to get into the spirit of Christmas than watching the festive lights switch on and the magical Christmas parade here in Port Talbot.
“It’s been a wonderful weekend of fun with plenty of local entertainment by members of our talented communities. What a great way to start celebrating the run up to the festive season!”
On Saturday 13th November Santa’s parade amazed the crowds lining the streets of Station Road with giant Mrs and Mrs Santa Claus accompanied by 7ft fluffy friendly reindeer, 2 well dressed larger than life penguins and 10ft fairies on stilts.
Local children dressed up as Christmas presents, magical characters and festive trimmings. The prize of Best Group in the parade was awarded to Solar Dance with runner-up Celtic Beat and 3rd place Trehar School of Dance.
You can now visit Santa at his brand new grotto in the Aberavon Shopping Centre.
Christmas lights switch-on in Neath will take place on Friday November 26th and in Pontardawe on the 3rd December. www.npt.gov.uk/christmas
For further information on Christmas events and how to post your letters to Santa in NPT please contact:
Special Events
NPTCBC
Tel: 01639 860008
E-mail: [email protected]