Walton Kicks off the Festive Season with the Spectacular Festival of Light

Saturday saw Walton-on-Thames town centre play host to the annual Christmas Festival of Light, with Outnumbered star, Tyger Drew-Honey, switching on the lights. Organised by The Walton Business Group, The Heart and The RC Sherriff Trust, to kick off the Christmas season in style, it was yet another spectacular Festival.

From 10am on Saturday, the High Street was lined with festive stalls and shops around town were offering great promotions for visitors looking to start their Christmas shopping. Selected stores within The Heart also got in the mood for giving, offering shoppers an exclusive 10% discount and staying open until 8pm. As well as rides for the children there was entertainment from local station, Radio Jackie, who were on site giving away on the spot prizes and playing all the latest hits. Several local school choirs and musicians provided further festive entertainment. The spectacular lantern procession, which included a giant Santa and impressive ‘Snow Queen’, kicked off at 5.30pm, finishing at the The Heart and culminating in the big lights switch on at 6pm with the Mayor and Mayoress of Elmbridge and Outnumbered star, Tyger Drew-Honey.

Mark Middleton, General Manager, commented: “Once again the Festival of Light saw a big turnout in Walton town centre. It’s a great initiative that The Heart continues to support as it not only encourages trade within the town at a crucial time of year, showing local shoppers what we have to offer, but creates a great sense of community spirit too.”

Sarah-Jane Shellard, Event Manager and Director of the WBG, said “I am delighted to have had such great feedback from the public and the businesses. Thanks to everyone who worked so hard to showcase our town. There was a wonderful atmosphere. It was a great start to Christmas.”

With the festival signalling the start of the festive season in Walton late night shopping hours will commence at The Heart every Thursday from 8th December until the 22nd with shops open until 8pm and free car parking between 5pm and midnight.