Norden lit up in festive extravaganza

Hundreds turned out for the Norden festive extravaganza

Norden had a Christmas Lights switch on and festive markets like no other.

The event, which has been described as the “best ever staged”, is in its fifth year and saw hundreds of local people turn up to support the event.

Held on Thursday 27 November, the event included activities such as a craft market, carols, a brass band, hot food stalls, free mulled wine and minced pies and of course, a visit from Santa.

The evening began at 5:30pm with children from Caldershaw Primary School entertaining crowds with a selection of carols. The Christmas lights were turned on by Santa who then went to his grotto at Norden Studio, where children were able to visit him for the rest of the evening.

With free mulled wine and mince pies, courtesy of NEEVA (Norden Environmental and Economic Village Association), and Christmas music from the Rochdale Salvation Army Band, the night went on with everyone getting into the festive spirit.

Funds raised at the event totalled £350 and will go to NEEVA who work throughout the year to provide features such as Norden’s hanging baskets and community events to help support local retailers and bring local people together.

Event organiser and Norden councillor, Peter Winkler said: “The event is always a huge effort and I would like to thank everyone who has helped with this year’s switch on.

“Norden has so many great shops and businesses that we must celebrate and support, plus events like this really help to raise community spirit. It is always great to see so many people enjoying events like this and it makes all the hard work worthwhile.”