Littlehampton Town Council had to postpone its Christmas Lights Switch on event on 22 November due to the high winds forecast for the day which would have made it unsafe to operate. By making a call to push the event back to another date, the council was able to salvage many of the elements and give enough notice to businesses that were staying open late to make alternative staffing arrangements.

The actual switch on of the Christmas illuminations took place in a private event on Friday 21 November when the winner of the ‘Design the Mayor’s Christmas Card Competition’, Kyra Roberts, was joined by Littlehampton Mayor Councillor Alan Butcher and Santa in the High Street. 

The council can now confirm that many of the elements of the Switch on event have moved to Small Business Saturday which is taking place on 6 December. The national campaign celebrates and encourages support for small businesses across the UK. Working with the Littlehampton Business Forum, the council has combined elements of the Switch on event with other already planned activities. 

The event will run from 10:00 to 17:00, and will feature stalls, caterers, and free activities, including face painting (10:00 to 14:00), meet and greet with the Grinch, Cindy Lou Who, and Elsa (11:30 to 13:30), walkabout acts and live music. You can also enjoy kids rides and performances along the high street. Several local businesses are getting involved through special offers, workshops and activities. 

There is also free parking in St Martin’s and Manor House car parks all day, brought to you by the Town and District Councils.

Littlehampton Town Mayor and Chair of the Town Centre Action Group, Councillor Alan Butcher, said: “It was unfortunate that the original event was affected by the weather but through making an early decision we were able to move many of the attractions to the 6 December – we hope you can make the new date and get into the festive spirit with us. I would like to express our gratitude to our contractors and residents who have been incredibly understanding. The Town Council is proud to support small businesses and encourage you to support and shop local. We thank Arun District Council for supporting this event with the extended free parking offer.”

Councillor Freddie Tandy, Arun District Council chairman said: “I am delighted to support initiatives that bring our community together and celebrate the fantastic businesses we have here in Littlehampton. Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the festive atmosphere while supporting local traders. By offering free parking and helping to create a vibrant town centre with family-friendly activities, we’re encouraging people to shop local and make the most of what Littlehampton has to offer this season."

Find out more Visit Littlehampton: www.visitlittlehampton.co.uk/whats-on/small-business-saturday-activities/