Thousands share in delight at return of Sudbury Christmas Fair and Lights Switch-on

The much-anticipated return of Sudbury Christmas Fair and Lights Switch-on has been hailed as a “rip-roaring success”, as thousands joined in to mark the start of the festive season.

After the switch-on had to take place virtually last year due to lockdown, the signature annual event returned in style last Friday night, with between 4,000 and 5,000 thought to be in attendance.

Although torrential rain had fallen earlier in the day, conditions miraculously dried up before the event began at 5pm, allowing everyone to enjoy the fair rides, Christmas carols, magic shows, market stalls and Santa’s Grotto.

The switch-on itself was then carried out at 6.30pm by Sudbury mayor Sue Ayres, illuminating the town centre in eye-catching festive colours.

Town centre manager Rachel Price told Suffolk News the event may have been even busier than the last public switch-on in 2019.

“It was a really lovely evening and we were so happy to see lots of smiling faces,” she said.

“We were overwhelmed by the number of people, and all the market traders and shops were so happy to see people who wouldn’t normally come in.”

Teresa Elford, Sudbury events co-ordinator, added: “We had way more people than I thought, and we had such good feedback.

“We’re so pleased and so grateful to everyone who turned up to support us and felt safe to do so.”