HUNDREDS turned out for the annual Rubery Christmas lights switch-on and enjoyed two hours of festive entertainment before the countdown and big plunger moment.
Live music came from the Ice Queen and international singer Chloe Barry and there was the chance to sing carols with St Chad’s Church. There were also street entertainers, fresh doughnuts and Christmas stalls.
Kicking things off was Stand Out Drama, an inclusive group for children aged three and over which sang Christmas songs.
They also performed White Christmas with Makaton sign language, following weeks of rehearsals by teachers Ceri and Ange.
Picture by Tristan Harris.
The lights were switched on by Bromsgrove District Council Chairman, Coun Sam Ammar, Father Christmas, the winner of a local art competition and two youngsters from Jellybabies Nursery.
Picture by Tristan Harris.
A prayer for Rubery
Prior to the big switch-on, the Christmas tree lights were illuminated. Rev Claire Turner from St Chad’s Church led a prayer where she spoke about the light of God, remembering lost loved ones and the Primrose Hospice.
“We ask God for his blessing for all those cared for by the Primrose Hospice and all those who will see this tree and its light.”
She also blessed those who we are apart from – ‘distant family, those in hospital or residential care and those serving abroad’.
“Bless all those who live or work in Rubery and this community. Bless this place, fill us with your hearts and touch our hearts with your love.
“And so may the blessing of creator, redeemer and sustainer be with you and those you love this night and forever.”
Click here to see Rev Turner’s prayer on Facebook.
Picture by Tristan Harris.
There were loud cheers when the tree was lit and then it was time for the big countdown and the village was illuminated for the festive season.
Coun Ammar thanked everyone who made the event possible and told the Standard: “We have seen so much Christmas spirit in Rubery this afternoon – it was beautiful.
“There was such a fantastic turn-out and a real festive atmosphere.”
We broadcast the Christmas lights switch-on live on our Facebook page – click here to watch the video.
Picture by Tristan Harris.
And Chloe Barry also performed some more Christmas songs after the big illumination moment.
