Fordingbridge Town Council have now announced that there will be an event, in a reduced scale, for the light switch on in Fordingbridge on 27 November in Market Place.

There will be a short parade beginning at Roundhill at 6pm, when Father Christmas will travel the length of the High Street in his sleigh pulled by Thomas the Tank Engine, before arriving at the Market Place.

There will be traditional carols and a local hero will switch on the Christmas lights. Father Christmas will then return to the North Pole.

There will be a present appeal organised by the Salvation Army, when new, unwrapped gifts can be donated. The Food Bank will also be accepting donations. Both can be taken to Event Control outside the Town Hall from 5.30–6.30pm on the evening, or to the Information Office beforehand.

There will be road closures in place from 5.30-7pm.