One of the highlights of the Otley calendar is the outstanding Christmas light switch on. It brings the small tight-knit community of Otley together and is the perfect way to start the Christmas season. On these bleak and foggy nights, a warm and welcoming town event is always something to look forward to.

At this year’s Christmas light switch on, visitors found the Market Square full of people eager to see the nights performance. Woolpack Music Studios, Otley Brass Band and local school choirs all performed wonderfully and brought out the best spirits in the event-goers. The Christmas music resonated all over Otley and the town crier proclaimed his speech.

Despite the cold weather, the crowd was full of joyous laughter and contagious smiles. The warmth and happiness reached the youngest and oldest of guests, and so did the range of attractions. The nearby pubs offered takeout drinks and a raffle was set up for the adults. As for the youngsters, they had their fair share of fairground rides, such as the spinning teacups and a train ride. The Leeds Rhinos mascot came to say hello and even Santa had the time to visit Otley!

Emily Aldous, 14, stated,”I really liked the fireworks, they were the main event. The atmosphere in general is lovely. I really want to come back next year!" Emily is one of many to appreciate the fantastic firework show that was put on. Although cloudy skies fogged up some vision, the effect overall was well done.

The mood was nothing but merry as it was lovely to meet people you know, exchange smiles and a couple of words and look around at local shop windows, spotting which ones were entered in the annual window-dressing competition. With mouths full of hot pies, grinning from ear to ear, the crowd was especially excited to see what they came for – fireworks!

At around 7, a quite hum descended over the square, Father Lawrie said a few words and as the Town Crier made the crowd cheer, the Mayor of Otley stepped onto the stage, read an encouraging speech and introduced the current Queen of Otley to help count down towards the switching on of the lights. Vibrant reds and greens painted the sky as the firework finale boomed in time to Mariah Carrie’s iconic single, ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’.

This year's Christmas Light Switch On has been a fabulous opportunity for the people of Otley to show some community spirit, listen to live music whilst enjoying a night well spent.