BRIGG CHRISTMAS LIGHTS WILL BE ON A BIT EARLIER & LONGER THIS YEAR

You will be able to enjoy the Brigg town centre Christmas lights a little longer this year.
They will be put up during November, switched on and tested so any difficulties that might arise can be ironed out prior to the festive season.
The official and traditional Friday night switch-on ceremony in the Market Place will then take place on Friday, December 2, in line with past practice.
The stage will  be erected in the Market Place, from which the lights will be illuminated ("5-4-3-2-1") and the crowd entertained.
The Lions' Christmas fair, accompanied by late night shopping until 9pm will then get into full swing (see Ken Harrison's picture from last year's event - above).
Brigg Town Council provides the Christmas lights, but over in Scunthorpe, which does not have a Town Council, the illuminations are arranged by North Lincolnshire Council, the unitary authority.
Details of the steel town's Christmas lights event have now been released.
Many people from the Brigg area will wish to enjoy this, so we make no apologies for posting full details, together with a comment from one of our local councillors.



FROM KIRSTY WESTFIELD, NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL

The festive season is almost here, Christmas cards and decorations are sneaking into the shops and North Lincolnshire Council is busy getting ready for the all new Christmas Market and lights switch on event in Scunthorpe.
This year, the Christmas lights switch in event is stepping back in time and is going to be an all-day event on Saturday 26 November from 9am to 4.30pm. 
There will be lots of Dickensian inspired activities and entertainment for all the family.
Activities will start at 9am in Scunthorpe town centre with a special Christmas Market and traditional Victorian rides and games. A varied programme of Victorian themed street entertainment and musical performances will take place throughout the day to entertain shoppers.
Come along and meet Dickens’ favourite character Scrooge – Bah humbug! Take time out to laugh along with the timeless show Punch and Judy or enjoy the traditional Christmas music played on hand bells.
There will be a wide variety of stalls at the Christmas Market including mulled wine, German sausage, bespoke wooden crafts, traditional sweets, candles, cakes, Christmas decorations and books – just to name a few.
The fun will continue at 20-21 Visual Arts Centre from 10am. 20-21’s Christmas Funday will be based on a Victorian theme but with a special Steampunk twist, Charles Dickens’ classic novel A Christmas Carol and Doctor Who. With demonstrations from the Lincolnshire Steampunk Society, story time, artivities in the gallery and a visit from the Doctor himself. This is something you don’t want to miss.
Father Christmas will take time out of his busy schedule to visit his grotto at North Lincolnshire Museum before heading into the town centre to turn the Christmas lights on at 4.30pm.
Join Dudley as he discovers the Victorian Christmas at North Lincolnshire Museum by making traditional Christmas decorations in the craft zone, a ‘Santa Stop Here’ sign or your very own Christmas tree.
Coun Rob Waltham, from Brigg, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Business, Innovation, Employment and Skills, said: “Get your festive season off to a great start with our new look Christmas Market and lights switch on in Scunthorpe town centre. It’s going to be a fun-filled family event with lots to see and do. Not only will the town centre be brought to life, there will be lots to get involved in at North Lincolnshire Museum and 20-21 Visual Arts Centre.
“We have followed the same set up for the Christmas lights switch on in Scunthorpe for many years, which hasn’t always been the best time for people to attend. This year we wanted to try something new and make it a whole day of family entertainment in the build up to the lights switch on.
“It will be the perfect opportunity to get some Christmas shopping done and you’ll be supporting local businesses. What’s more it is free parking all weekend in our car parks.
“Come along to Scunthorpe town centre and join in the Christmas festivities. It’s going to be a fantastic day.”

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

Brigg folk might also be interested in visiting a pre-Christmas event in Barton.
North Lincolnshire Council suggests: "Get a head start on your Christmas shopping at Waters’ Edge Visitor Centre’s popular Christmas Craft Fair on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 November from 10am to 4pm.
"With over 30 stalls to browse, you will be spoilt for choice!
"Come and take a look at the huge selection of locally made crafts and buy gifts for your loved ones ahead of the December rush.
"You will be able to choose from a wide variety of items including jewellery, bags, scarves, paintings, candles, soaps, decorations, babywear, cakes and flowers - plus much more!
"Some of the crafters will be able to take commissions for Christmas so you can give extra special gifts to your family and friends.
"Admission to the Visitor Centre and Park is free.
"The Honey Pot Café will be open serving a range of delicious homemade meals, snacks and drinks. 
"Please note that parking outside the Visitor Centre is restricted to people with a disability and mobility problems. Please use the main car park at the entrance.
"For more information about the Christmas Craft Fair call 01652 631500."
Coun Rob Waltham (Brigg & Wolds)  said: “The Waters’ Edge Christmas Fair is the perfect way to start the festive season. With over 30 stalls you are guaranteed to find unique gifts for your friends and family. This is one of the biggest craft fairs in the area and is increasing in popularity each year. Make sure you get this in your diary.”