A BIG welcome is given to Christmas on Saturday, December 7, as Millom hosts a market and switches on the traditional street lights.

To mark the event we are taking a look at festive celebrations in the town across the years.

Millom’s Christmas market is being held from 2pm to 6pm this year – with stalls in the Market Square and the Guide Hall.

Look out for fairground rides, a Santa’s grotto, carol singing, mulled wine and crafts.

The street lights are due to be switched on at 4pm.

In 2001 the switch-on events included a beacon by the post office and a display of fireworks in Millom Park.

Mayor Neil Houston and wife Maureen judged the Christmas window competition which had been entered by 29 firms.

The winner was the Furness Building Society with a design which featured Christmas cards made by pupils at St James’ School.

Age Concern was second and third was Green’s Bakers.

The Mail, on December 7 in 2002, noted: “Youngsters carrying lanterns joined in with Millom’s Christmas crib dedication service in the Market Square.

“School pupils were invited by the mayor, Cllr Frank McPhillips, to design hand-held lanterns for the ceremony, in a bid to get more young people in the service.

“The event also featured Father Christmas, who arrived to welcome children to his grotto.

“Children could also enjoy a selection of children’s amusements and funfair rides.”

Millom’s festive market was ready for whatever the weather had to offer in 2007 as a giant marquee was set up in the Market Square.

The Mail, on December 5 said 30 traders, craft workers and charity groups had booked tables for the event – selling everything from jewellery and knitted items to gifts and floral displays.

Millom’s One World Project was hosting a Traidcraft stall.

Organiser Tom McCafferty said this was the fifth year for the market and many of the stall holders were getting dressed up to give a Victorian feel.

He said: “It is getting bigger and better every year.

“The marquee is full and there will be about 30 stalls taking part.”