Chatteris is lit up for Christmas

They have been eight months in the planning and taken over 1,500 hours of volunteer time but it was certainly worth the effort as Chatteris got lit up for Christmas on Saturday.

The big switch-on saw thousands of people turn out to watch the lights get turned on and to enjoy the usual array of fair rides and stalls.

There was also a chance to meet the big man himself as Father Christmas was in attendance.

Considered one of the best displays in the region Chatteris will shine brightly from now until January, with the lights coming on daily at 3pm and shining until midnight.

In a post on Facebook the lights committee reiterated their need for help and said: “Unfortunately with our limited number of volunteers, rising costs, and having to fight our way through so much red tape & new regulations each year it’s becoming harder and harder to provide you with the best Christmas lights for miles around.

“This year marks 38 years since the Chatteris Christmas Lights was established in 1985 and have grown massively during this time.

“Putting aside our yearly need for donations, sponsorship, and volunteers for a moment to raise awareness of our most pressing challenge.

“We are desperately seeking a person or persons to join our team who either have a G39 qualification or would be interested in doing the one-day (paid for by us) to achieve this qualification and a commitment to a certain amount of days volunteering with us.

“The regulation requiring us to have G39 qualified team members is now in place meaning we have to find someone to join us before January to take the lights down.

“Anyone who might be able to help, like further information or to discuss anything regarding the Christmas Lights please drop a message or send one via our Facebook group.”