Thousands attended the lights switch on in Market Place (credit: Havering Council)
The main stage in Market Place was hosted by Time 107.5FM’s Mark Dover and saw headliners DJ Luck and MC Neat perform their well-known 1999 hit ‘A Little Bit of Luck’.
Rozalla also kept the crowd moving with her 90s worldwide dance hit ‘Everybody’s Free (To Feel Good)’ which reached the top ten in over 30 countries.
Local artists also showcased including Hornchurch’s Vivica Jade, Razzamataz Theatre School, The Frances Bardsley Academy’s School Choir, Lit Youth and Minis.
Marks and Spencer Romford Team and Friends shared a special performance of their new Christmas single ‘Maybe This Christmas Time’.
Queen’s Theatre also treated the audience to a preview of ‘Dick Whittington’ their Christmas pantomime for this year.
Romford Shopping Hall’s Father Christmas made an appearance along with a full cast of colourful characters courtesy of the Lightnin Drama Group, including the Grinch and many more, who turned up to celebrate with the crowds.
The show concluded with the festive lights being switched-on by the Mayor of Havering, Councillor Stephanie Nunn, ahead of a spectacular fireworks finale.
Mayor of Havering, Cllr Stephanie Nunn, said: “Switching on the Christmas lights marks the start of the festivities in Havering. It’s always rewarding to see so many residents come along to help bring in the festive season.
“I would like to thank all the performers for giving us such a wonderful show, our sponsors for making this possible, and everyone who came out to share this special night.”
Leader of Havering Council, Councillor Ray Morgon, said: “It was again a pleasure to join thousands of people in welcoming the festive period at the Havering Christmas lights switch-on.
“My thanks to our main sponsor Urbaser and Razzmatazz Theatre Schools and Time 107.5 FM for supporting this year’s festivities and making the event possible.
“Given our funding challenges, we might not always be able to host events like this in the coming years.
“However, like this year, we will continue to work with our businesses and local communities to ensure we can still celebrate in future years.”
Tags: Romford, Havering
