TRAFFORD is getting ready to sparkle this Christmas.

The borough's Christmas festivities begin this weekend with the first of the town centre Christmas light switch-on events.

Council Leader Sean Anstee said he was delighted that businesses have supported the Council's efforts. "As soon as it became clear that the Council was not in a position to fund the lights this year, we set about securing the funds necessary.

"Local businesses big and small have come out in support of our efforts and I am delighted that there will be a little sparkle of Christmas magic across Trafford this year.

"We all know what an important time of year this is for traders and we wanted to do everything possible to make sure shoppers and visitors felt welcomed and festive as they go about picking up their festive presents, food, decorations and able to relax with family and friends in attractive surroundings."

This year the switch-on events will take place on the following dates: 

Urmston - Friday 20 November, the fun starts with the lights switch-on and entertainment by the Christmas tree on Queens Road, between 5.30pm and 6.30pm. There will also be entertainment in Eden Square between 7pm and 8pm.

Altrincham - Saturday 21 November, festivities start with a Lantern Parade from Shaws Road by the Market, assemble from 4pm for the parade down to the Stamford Quarter. The evening switch-on show starts in the Stamford Quarter at 4.40pm, with the lights to be switched on at 5.15pm.

Sale – Saturday 28 November, with entertainment at The Square Shopping Centre from 11.30am, ahead of the official lights switch-on at 3.55pm. The entertainment will then move to Waterside Plaza where Santa will also be distributing presents.
There will also be special festive family-friendly evenings, starting on Thursday 26 November with carols around the Christmas tree at Trafford Town Hall, starting at 4.30pm. 

This will be followed on Friday, 27 November, by a festive evening from 4pm-6pm in Timperley village, with activities for all the family. It is understood that Santa is also hoping to make a special appearance in Timperley.

The festive lights have also gone up in Partington town centre.

It is thanks to the generosity of local businesses and sponsors that the Christmas lights are once again going to sparkle, bringing a warm, festive feel, for shoppers.