Press Release

Derry Counts Down To Big Switch-On

Monday, November 20, 2006

It’s family first as Derry celebrates the big Christmas Switch On on Wednesday evening, 22nd November. Helping Santa transform the city into a magical wonderland will be Emmerdale’s Debbie Dingle, actress Charley Webb, and the Mayor, Councillor Helen Quigley with the help of Santa and panto stars from Cinderalla. The fun starts at 6.30pm with musical entertainment from the James Peake Xperience, who will make sure everyone is in festive form before the Big Switch on at 7.30pm.

Derry City Council workers, Seamus Carlin and Arthur Arbuckle checking the Christmas tree before the big switch on of the Christmas lights.

Mark Patterson, from BBC Radio Foyle will be host for the evening while members of Derry City Football Team, will make a special appearance after what has been an amazing sporting year for them!

The Mayor, Councillor Helen Quigley, is encouraging as many families as possible to come along and enjoy the experience said she hoped it would be a great family occasion:

She commented: “Celebrities don’t come much bigger than Santa and I’m sure everyone will want to welcome him as he prepares for Christmas. This year’s he’s getting a helping hand from Emmerdale’s Debbie Dingle so there’re sure to be plenty of laughter and festive cheer as the city is transformed into a winter wonderland.

“The people in this part of the world are renowned for their warmth and humour and I’m sure there’ll be a good turnout to welcome Santa and Debbie as we prepare for Christmas.”

The Christmas lights will be switched on at 7.30pm. Speaking via a satellite link from his magical workshop in the North Pole, Santa said:

“I’m really looking forward to arriving in Derry. It’s the first chance I’ll have to see you all as I prepare for Christmas so I’m looking forward to finding out what everyone wants for Christmas. I’m making a list and checking it twice!

“I’m also looking forward to meeting the Mayor and Debbie from Emmerdale. Rudolf and I often watch Emmerdale from the North Pole so it’ll be nice to meet her in person!

“I hope everyone in Derry has a lovely Christmas and I’m looking forward to seeing them in Guildhall Square. Happy Christmas everyone!”

Ends

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