City gears up for Christmas (From South Wales Argus)

City gears up for Christmas

1:57pm Monday 23rd November 2009

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THOUSANDS braved the rain last night to witness the turning on of Newport’s Christmas lights.

The skies over the city centre were lit up by fireworks as the Mayor of Newport Cllr Glyn Jarvis, joined by the winners of our Search for a Star competition, Malpas Church in Wales Junior School choir, pressed the button to illuminate Newport’s festive display.

The smell of roasting nuts filled the air as parents and children danced and sang along to festive tunes.

The event started at 12pm on the live stage at the top of High Street, hosted by Newport Comedian Jools Constant and Red Dragon radio.

The crowd were kept entertained with performances from local acts including Ysgol Gymraeg Casnewydd Choir, Rogerstone Brass Band, Vanessa Clark School of Dance and Dirty Goods.

Children enjoyed a special visit from Santa in his musical sleigh, as well as Frosty the Snowman, whilst parents browsed Christmas stalls selling everything from festive crafts to home made cakes and pastries.

There was also a fun bus Childsplay cafe offering festive activities for youngsters before the evening was wrapped up by Big Macs Wholly Soul Band.

Cllr Jarvis thanked Malpas-based charity St Anne’s Hospice for sponsoring the Christmas trees for the event and wished Newport residents a happy festive season.

The Search for a Star competition was run in conjunction with Newport Council and Red Dragon FM.

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