LAUNCESTON Chamber of Commerce believe around 1,000 people braved the cold weather to watch the town’s Christmas extravaganza last Friday, along with the official switching on of the lights.

Town crier Rob Tremain kicked proceedings off, and made way for the countdown to the light switch-on at 6pm, this year performed by Launceston carnival royalty and Heart FM’s Matt and Victoria.

Once the town was beautifully lit, there was a procession from the arcade, with two horses and carriages from Easter Hall Park Stables in Okehampton carrying Santa and the carnival girls.

The procession also consisted of Launceston College Samba Band, and around 30 children from Windmill Academy, carrying handmade lanterns.

Irena Jordi-Slater, commerce chairman, said: “It was quite challenging with the procession route, but there were so many people. We reckon there were around 1,000 people. It was really challenging to make sure the road was clear.”

In the town square, there was plenty of entertainment, ranging from fire jugglers, an appearance from Olaf and Elsa and a popular show by Magic Martin.

There was music from the town band, the Jo Down Quartet and the Pop Choir.

A number of food stalls were dotted in and around the town, as well as some stalls and fireground rides for the younger members of the community.

Launceston Police, along with the police cadets, were very supportive of the event, and offered their assistance thoughout the evening.

Thanks were also expressed to the first aid volunteers who were on stand by.

Father Christmas made an appearance in the Market House Arcade, and handed out presents to those who paid him a visit in his grotto.

A highlight of the evening for many was the opening of the Christmas tree festival in St Mary’s Church.

The church had a good flow of people visiting throughout the evening, with queues forming at times.

Volunteers were on hand to welcome people into the church, where they were offered mince pies and mulled wine, and were invited to walk around the building to see the large number of Christmas trees that have been decorated by various groups and organisations from in and around the town.

The festival was made even more atmospheric with music provided by the choir.

The evening has been hailed a success by the businesses in the town.

Ms Jordi-Slater said: “Many shops said they were so busy and some shops, like Lokarama, said they could hardly move in their premises! They were very, very busy. It was a really good event for the town.”

It is hoped that the Christmas extravaganza will encourage more people to support the late night evenings, which will be held every Thursday in the run up to Christmas.

Ms Jordi-Slater said shop opening times on these evenings will vary, but many have said they will remain open until around 7pm to 7.30pm.

On December 20, everyone is invited to join Launceston Town Band for carols around the tree, which will begin at 7pm.

Ms Ireni-Jordan said the Chamber of Commerce was delighted with how the event went.

“It went really, really well. It was good for the town and good for business.”