ADVERSE weather conditions did not stop a day of music, dancing, and festive cheer arriving at Redditch town centre on Saturday despite Storm Darragh causing a hasty rearrangement of the plans.
The scheduled Christmas lights switch-on at Church Green was cancelled on grounds of public safety but the musical performances went ahead unabated under the Canopies area behind the library.
Top of the bill was JLS star Aston Merrygold who put on a stellar performance alongside a string of other acts, including the cast of Sleeping Beauty panto from the Palace Theatre, tribute acts as well dancers from the Shaun Paul Smith Dance Academy.
A meet-and-greet inside the Kingfisher with Aston was also well-attended and the star was reported to have thoroughly enjoyed meeting his fans.
Organiser, Muj Rahman, the Redditch BID manager, told the Standard he was very pleased they were able to put on the event despite the challenges caused by the weather and that they were able to utilise the Canopies to put on the event safely.
He said: “The Christmas Extravaganza was a testament to the strength and unity of the Redditch people.
“Despite the less-than-ideal weather, the event captured the joy and magic of the holiday season, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended, reinforcing the community’s determination to celebrate together, come rain or shine.
“I am grateful to everyone involved for stepping up to the challenges and helping us deliver another great event in the town, including the team at Kingfisher Redditch, who hosted the meet-and-greet inside the centre.”
