The traders and residents of Shirley received a dose of festive cheer on their doorstep on November 23 when their Christmas lights were switched on.

An all-tooting pipe band and cadet force marched down Bridle Road then Wickham Road until it reached Trinity school in a procession which signalled the start of a late night shopping spree. The ceremonial switching on of the Christmas lights was done by Superintendant Peacock from Croydon police but the biggest surprise on the night was the people who came in their hundreds to witness the event.

Over 800 people packed the streets to see Shirley's lights go on and enjoy the spectacles moving through their streets.

A man was seen pedalling a contraption with two wheels and wings to promote the feats of engineering achieved by nearby Topliss cycle shop.

A woman on stilts dressed like a bird past the crowds and many people gathered to sing Christmas carols to the outdoor audience.

Sonia Curtis, Topliss Cycle trader and chairman of Shirley Business Association, said: "People should be going out and supporting their local area by coming to see what their local shops are offering at Christmas time."

December 6, 2001 11:30