Priory Meadow Christmas light switch on 2010. Pictures: Justin LycettPriory Meadow Christmas light switch on 2010. Pictures: Justin Lycett
Priory Meadow Christmas light switch on 2010. Pictures: Justin Lycett

Hastings Christmas lights switch on ten years ago

The Christmas shopping period ten years ago was officially launched with a big festive light switch-on in Priory Meadow. Around 2,000 people descended on Queens Square in November 2010 to watch Christmas lights come on in all their glory, as well as a spectacular fireworks display. That year’s panto star, pop legend Jimmy Osmond, was unable to be there as he was still in the USA but the rest of the cast of Cinderella was present to spread Christmas cheer to the crowds. More than 400 people queued up to enter Cinderella’s castle to dip their hands in a big chest of chocolate coins, hoping to pick out one of the 12 special winning ones with the Priory Meadow logo in order to win a family ticket to watch the panto at the White Rock.

There had been dreadful weather conditions in the morning, so all day, staff at Priory Meadow Shopping Centre were on edge, wondering whether the fireworks would be possible. Luckily, it all calmed down and the stage was set for a very successful evening. Queens Square was very busy on the Thurday and everyone was looking forward to it being transformed into a winter wonderland with the return of the Christmas ice rink at the weekend.

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