College sponsors Portsmouth Christmas lights celebrations
Three Portsmouth Christmas lights switch-ons will feature pantomime stars, local performers and festive entertainment
Havant Sixth Form College has been thanked for helping bring festive celebrations to Portsmouth’s Christmas lights switch-on events.
Portsmouth City Council has thanked the sixth form college for its support as a title sponsor, alongside Nation Radio, Biscoes Solicitors, HW Conveyancing Searches, Foster Portsmouth and Endometriosis South Coast.
Their support will help deliver three switch-on events in Cosham, Southsea and the city centre, allowing thousands of residents across the city to kick-start the festive season.
The events will feature pantomime stars, local performers, Christmas shopping and special guests. It has also been confirmed through his press office that Father Christmas will make an appearance.
Pete Budd, from Havant Sixth Form College, part of the HSDC group, said: “We’re proud to be the title sponsor of Portsmouth’s Christmas Lights Switch On Parties and to play a part in bringing these celebrations to local communities.
“Many of our students live in Portsmouth, so it’s important to us that we support events that bring people together and create positive memories for families.
“These events are a fantastic way to celebrate everything that’s special about the city while encouraging people to support local businesses. We’re delighted to be involved.”
Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, added: “We’re incredibly grateful to our sponsors for their support. Without their generosity, these free events simply wouldn’t be possible.
“Their backing helps us bring communities together and create special moments for thousands of people across Portsmouth at the start of the festive season.
“We’re encouraging everyone to light up their Christmas in Portsmouth. Our high streets, markets, independent shops, cafés and restaurants have so much to offer and are a great place to find something special this Christmas.”
The festivities will begin in Cosham High Street on Wednesday, November 18, with the lights switch-on and community choirs.
The following day, celebrations will continue in Palmerston Road, with performances from King’s Theatre’s Jack and the Beanstalk star and former EastEnders actor Shaun Williamson, who played Barry.
On Friday, Commercial Road will host entertainment from the Theatre Royal’s Mother Goose, led by Cherry Liquor from Britain’s Got Talent.
The event will coincide with the We Shine Community Light and Art Festival in Victoria Park.
For the full programme, visit www.rediscoverportsmouth.co.uk/Christmas