Kirkholt Christmas starts with songs, dance and a lot of Xmas cheer

Gracie McDermott with Rochdale MP Tony Lloyd on hand to assist the countdown to the switch on Kirkholt Christmas lights

People of all ages gathered at the new Strand Community Hub in Kirkholt on Thursday 22 November 2018 for the Christmas lights switch on. 

As twilight fell the festive crowd was warmed with hot chocolate served from the Community Café and entertained with carols by local choir Young at Heart and a dance display by the Kirkholt K-Stars.   

Rochdale MP Tony Lloyd was on hand to assist with the countdown to the switch on as local girl Gracie McDermott pushed the plunger to light up the tree outside the new hub.

As people moved inside the Hub they were serenaded with a Caribbean steel band as the children joined in with arts and craft activities.

People had the opportunity to see inside the Strand Community Hub and have their say on activities and events they would like to see there.

Clare Tostevin, Director of Growth with RBH, said: “It was great to see the community enjoying the Christmas activities at the Strand. This new community space, together with the café, homes and shops, at the heart of Kirkholt now provides a fantastic facility where people can come together to meet, work and enjoy activities for young and old.”