Wimpish is not the word! Why sit warm and snug in the Market Hall when you could be soaked or freezing on the Main Street? What a lesson Evette Clague taught us two years ago when, fresh from an Australian heatwave, she braved sub-zero temperatures in her father's ancestral home town to read a message in braille from her mayor and then thrill the town with the pure genius of her clarinet recital - no gloves!

Joking apart, a crowded Market Hall proved how much this event was treasured by hundreds of Egremont families who were thrilled by the home brewed talent that entertained them from the stage. No mimicking of celebrities here. We enjoyed vibrant, inventive dancing from two lovely young groups, Theatre Crazy and Pop Steps, who stepped out to a rhythm that came from their hearts, joyful singing from both the Orgill and St Bridget's choirs with the spirit of Christmas shining from young eyes, and the coolest of jazz from Bayou Rhythm Kings. Mini Mansell kept children of all ages engaged in trying to emulate his juggling acts, and Santa was in his grotto to listen to young fans’ wish lists.
Led by a miniature pony and Mini Mansell, everyone in the hall joined a torchlight procession into the Main Street, where Liam Wright, whose lovely design appeared on the programme, switched on the Christmas lights with the help of the Mayor, Anne Faichney, and Margaret Woodburn. The event came to a climax with a spectacular firework display.

Ralph Merrett and the Special Events committee wish to thank everyone who helped with the event and would warmly welcome anyone else who would like to get involved. He told us that a major sponsor is needed next year to meet the costs of the event, which this year came to £5,500.
Our pictures, show, from top left Theatre Crazy, top right Pop Steps (thank you Julia for the photo) 2nd left Orgill choir, 2nd right, St Bridget's Choirs, bottom left, Santa and a young admirer,  bottom right, Mini Mansell plays with fire.