Chichester residents urged to nominate local heroes ahead of Christmas lights switch-on

The annual Light Up Chichester Christmas Lights Switch-On and After Party will take place on Saturday, November 21, with the festive lights set to be switched on at 5pm.

Organisers, Chichester BID, are searching for two local heroes to take centre stage at the event – one aged under 18 and another aged 18 or over.

The nominations are open to people who ‘have made a positive difference to others in their community, whether by inspiring young people, supporting those around them or quietly going the extra mile to help others’.

Organisers are encouraging residents to put forward someone they believe deserves recognition for their contributions.

Nominations close at midnight on Friday, October 30.

Those wishing to nominate someone can do so on Chichester BID’s website.

The two successful nominees will be given the honour of helping to officially switch on Chichester's Christmas lights at 5pm on November 21.

Natasha McLeod, CEO of Chichester BID, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch On is always such a brilliant moment for the city and we love that our local heroes are the ones who get to do the honours. It gives us an opportunity to celebrate some of the people who make a real difference to Chichester, while bringing everyone together to mark the start of Christmas in the city.

“The celebrations will continue after the switch on too, with our Light Up Chichester After Party giving everyone even more reason to make an evening of it – meeting up with friends and family and enjoying the city’s cafés, bars, pubs and restaurants.

“That really sets the tone for Christmas in Chichester this year. We want the city to be somewhere people come together, whether that’s for shopping, drinks, dinner, Christmas parties, a little festive pampering, taking part in our Festive Family Day, heading off on an adventure with our Christmas trail, or simply enjoying the lights, Christmas tree and atmosphere.”

This year’s Christmas Lights Switch On is being delivered in partnership with Chichester City Council, with the Mayor of Chichester, Councillor Sean McHale, joining the judging panel to help select this year’s two local heroes.

Councillor Sean McHale, Mayor of Chichester, said: “Chichester is fortunate to have so many people who give their time, energy and support to others, often without expecting any recognition in return. I’m delighted to be involved in selecting this year’s local heroes and look forward to hearing more about the people who make such a positive contribution to our city.”