I’d like to take this opportunity to say a special thank you to some of the individuals and organisations that helped to make it such a success.
 
First, huge thanks to our fabulous children’s entertainer, Graham Andrew of Funforce. It wasn’t just his lights, music, PA system, space hopper animals, bubbles and “snow” that made the difference – parents and children alike were drawn in and made to feel that they were sharing some special moments.
 
Both on the night and in the run up to the event, Graham’s contribution was invaluable and we’re so lucky to have him as part of Reepham’s community. If you want to know more about his entertainment and party services see www.funforce.com
 
The next big thank you goes to The Original Cottage Company, which not only hosted Santa’s grotto, but also provided a valuable resource in the form of Michele Savage, a key member of the Festival of Light team.
 
Special thanks go to David Groom and his team at Elec-Tech, who worked tirelessly to make sure our Christmas lights were up and running on time.
 
The Festival of Light was organised by a group comprising many of Reepham’s voluntary organisations, including the Rotary, the Chamber of Commerce, the Church, the Reepham Society, the Bircham Centre, Reepham Craft Fairs and Reepham Life, so thanks go to all of them.
 
Another key part of the team was Reepham Town Council, which provided not only funding for lights and the children’s presents from Santa, but also the support and time of the Town Clerk, Jo Boxall – without her hard work, we would not have had all those amazing stalls.
 
For me, the most enchanting moment was the children’s lantern parade, which brought tears to my eyes! This was made possible thanks to the Rector of St Mary’s, Margaret Dean, and the support and co-operation of the primary school headteacher and staff. A special thank-you goes to Broadland District Council, which funded the after-school workshop at the primary school.
 
Broadland also provided a generous grant to help fund the evening, which covered the cost of important elements, such as the presence of St John’s Ambulance.
 
Another group to thank is Reepham’s fire service, which allowed the stallholders to park behind the fire station.
 
The shops and businesses in Reepham all played their part in supporting the event by hosting entertainers and special events on the night. There are too many to list, but thank you all.
 
A final thank you goes to Andy, who arrived in style dressed in a special suit! I don’t want to dispel any illusions so won’t say more, but he was an excellent example of that very special character!
 
Brenda Gostling, Chairman, Reepham Chamber of Commerce
 
Photos from the Festival of Light can be purchased from John Tym Photography: http://client.tympix.com/Community/Festival-of-Light/
 

• What did you think of this year’s Festival of Light? Contact us or email: letters@reephamlife.co.uk