Hundreds turn out for switch-on of Christmas lights

ALMOST 300 residents attended the annual switch-on of the Benson Christmas lights.

High Street was closed to traffic for about two hours as visitors joined in with carols around the Christmas tree.

Seven members of the Roke and Benson Brass Band provided the music on the cornet, bass, baritone and euphonium in a set which included O Come, All Ye Faithful and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.

The mascot for Imogen Dental, Canine Croc, handed out glow sticks to children in a Santa hat and festive shirt before pulling the lever to switch on the Christmas lights.

Neel Tank, who has owned Imogen Dental for nearly two decades, said: “We’ve been part of the community for 20 years.

“We try and be here for the people. We are proud to be part of Benson and to give back to that community.”

There were also stalls for shopping and food while the Crown pub served complimentary mince pies and sold mulled wine.

Vivienne Duvall, 18, a member of the front-of-house team at the Crown, said: “The atmosphere was lovely. Everyone was quite festive.

“There was a sudden rush after the light switch-on, the music was turned up, the fires were going and it was a lovely community moment for Benson.”

The Millstream Centre, which aims to bring seniors in the community together by organising hot meals and activities each week, offered hot drinks. They also gave visitors the chance to decorate Christmas “memory baubles”.

Councillor Gavin McLauchlan, a parish councillor for Benson, said: “I’m loving the sense of community in Benson tonight and to see people out from all parts of Benson and even the surrounding villages.

“I visited No. 25 café, the Millstream Centre, the Crown and the shops — all of which were fuller than I’ve seen them in years.”