RISHTON CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON 2013

The Christmas lights will be officially switched on in Rishton on November 29th this year. The service will begin at 6.30pm on Parker Street corner and will be attended by the Mayor of Hyndburn, Cllr Judith Addison, plus Graham Jones MP. A short carol service will take place as usual and all residents are invited to attend.

Cllr Ken Moss said, "We have taken the decision to alternate between switch ons at Rishton Library and Parker Street corner from now on as we have two Christmas trees but it always takes place at the same one. This way, people who might not be able to walk up the hill to the Library can come along if they wish."

A new backdrop is being organised for the crib as this was damaged in storage last year. The image for the backdrop, a conglomerate picture made up of several drawings by local schoolchildren, has been found in the HBC archive and a replacement should be ready soon. In addition, the two large Christmas trees at Parker Street and the Library will be a permanent fixture as living trees are to be planted.

Cllr Moss said, "Having spoken to both the Parks Department and Dr Hancock at The Cabin Surgery, I can now confirm that trees will be planted permanently in both locations. The new trees will cost £500 each and be around two and a half metres tall which is smaller than we are used to but will save the Council a considerable amount each year."

The Christmas budget from Rishton Area Council has been agreed at £1,500 for some years and covers the cost of the switch on, trees above the shops plus other various sundry expenses and the Councillors have started to look at ways of reducing costs whilst giving the same service.

Ken Moss commented, "The three Councillors have sat down several times to discuss Christmas and as the costs of trees rises each year we are coming closer to going over budget. There are various options available such as buying lower quality trees but this was trialled in another ward in 2012 and was not a success. 2013 is all sorted which we are very pleased about but we are actively looking at how to save money in future years."

The switch on has been timed to coincide with the annual Rishton Free Gardeners Christmas Fair which all residents are welcome to attend. The fair will be comprised of various stalls with gifts and craft items plus a mulled wine stand to warm chilly revellers!