BARROW'S Christmas lights switch-on this Saturday may be a little different this weekend, but it will certainly be no less magical.

While at one stage the popular ceremony looked under threat, the town has come together to stage a memorable afternoon of live entertainment before the big switch-on at 5.45pm.

Taking to the stage outside the Town Hall are some of the Furness music scene's favourite performers, covering pop anthems and spectacular dance from 3pm.


Chris Barker Lakes Got Talent judge, and this year's Furness Charity Stars winner, Chris Barker will be one of 11 acts to appear.

He says: "There are a lot of local performers on this year's line-up and it's a great privilege to have been asked.

"I don't think this year's switch on will be too different to other years, apart from the fact it's been organised by the public which means it should include more of what the public want."


Cora May Brennan Talented teenage footballer Georgia Stanway and brave youngster Taylor Smith have been chosen to light up the town, and singer Cora May Brennan is looking forward to joining such inspirational locals on stage.

She says: "I'm really looking forward to the light switch-on - it's something our little town looks forward to each year.

"I'm very grateful that I was asked to perform. It's a huge privilege to be a part of something that brings the town together in a positive way."

Organisers are anticipating a large turn-out, so be sure to arrive early to secure a space down the front.

Running order

3pm – Welcome

3.05pm – Paris Corkill

3.15pm – Megan Doherty

3.25pm – Spotlight Dance

3.30pm – Abbie Clarke

3.40pm – Chris Barker

3.50pm – Spotlight Dance

3.55pm – Kev Thompson

4.10pm – Cora May Brennan

4.25pm – Marvellous Events

4.40pm – Tiffany Southward

4.55pm – Beth Horan

5.10pm – Mystical Experience

5.40pm – Sponsors and Barrow mayor

5.45pm - Lights switch-on

7pm - Wrapped Up after party at Wrapport

Charity party Wrapped Up takes place once the crowds have dispersed, even more local talent will be on show at Wrapport, in Cavendish Street.


Lyndsey Pratt and Craig Troth Coinciding with a series of Movember challenges, organisers ForGood Fundraising have called upon Still Frame Media Promotions to bring a line-up together, that includes Megan Doherty, Jordan Gaffney, Paper Cranes and The Coulton Brothers.

At 7pm, once the official switch-on finishes, the public is invitied to the restaurant where there will be live music, raffles and other fundraising initiatives, as well as festive beverages, and food.

Craig Troth, who set up ForGood Fundraising with his Furness General colleague Lyndsey Pratt, said: "The money we have raised so far has gone towards Dry January & Alcohol Concern, Sport Relief, A&E Paediatric Waiting Area at Furness General Hospital, and the Alzheimer's Society.

"The next thing we are raising money for is Movember. I approached Stuart Groundwater, the owner of Wrapport, to see if he would be interested in hosting the event and he agreed straight away. We invite the people of Barrow to attend Wrapport to continue the festivity."

Wrapped Up runs from 7pm, and entrance is free.