Winchester turns festive as hospice heroes turn on heritage city’s Christmas lights

The run-up to the festive season has officially got underway in Winchester with the switching on of the Christmas lights.

The spectacular event, sponsored by Dutton Gregory Solicitors, was organised by Winchester Business Improvement District (BID) on behalf of the local business community.

In the lead up to the event, Winchester BID launched its ‘search for local heroes’ campaign to find Winchester stars to switch on the lights.

This year the team at Winchester Hospice were chosen to press the giant switch-on button lighting up the heritage city.

Clinical Matron Donna Coombs, Deputy Sister Allison Warren and Consultant Nurse in Palliative Medicine Maddy Thomson collectively switched on the lights.

They were joined by Jo Westerman from the hospice’s fundraising charity who works to raise over £500,000 every single year to help keep Winchester Hospice open.

This year’s Winchester Christmas Lights Switch On event was hosted by Heart Radio’s Jonny Meah.

Other highlights included Winchester Round Table‘s Santa’s Sleigh and live performances from Harestock Primary School Choir, The Pilgrims’ School Chamber Choir, Winchester A-Capella, Integr8 Dance, Theatre Royal Winchester, Spitfire Sisters, Rock Choir and Diva Academy.

The Giant Inflatable Snow Globe was back in The Square during the day, helping to raise much needed donations for Spare Change for Lasting Change.

Winchester BID’s charity scheme aims to help to reduce street begging and rough sleeping in the city by supporting Trinity Winchester and The Winchester Beacon.

Paul Spencer, Executive Director at Winchester BID, said: “It was wonderful to see the community come together to enjoy the event and see the amazing local heroes from Winchester Hospice switch on the Christmas lights

“Thank you to all the event team and performers, members of the public who supported the event and to sponsor Dutton Gregory Solicitors.”

Winchester BID is also coordinating an Independent Business Chalet at the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market and has published a new festive city map.

More info about other activities across the wider Winchester District this Christmas can be found at: https://www.visitwinchester.co.uk/whats-on/christmas/

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