Broadlea Primary School, in Lake, celebrated the lead-up to Christmas with a special evening of activities and lantern lighting, involving local councillors, parents and pupils of the school.
The corridors of the school were decorated with seasonal lanterns, the newly opened library had trees festooned with festive features, and the hall had a range of creative activities to try, such as shadow puppets, origami tree-making and bottle lanterns, accompanied by carol-singing and popcorn freshly cooked over an outdoor firepit.
Headteacher Mrs Freeley said:
“This is the first Community Christmas event we’ve been able to have since the Covid lockdown, and I’d like to thank parents, staff and most of all, the children for making it such a success! The classes have been busy creating their wonderful lanterns, the choir have been practising so hard and sounded fabulous, and we were delighted that so many parents were able to join their children for our Christmas Tree decoration workshops.
“This is our first Lantern Extravaganza and it will not be our last! A special mention, and thank you, must go to Miss Ali Bonnick, our very talented Art & DT Lead, who made the whole evening possible.’
Local Councillor Paul Brading added:
“As someone that attended this school 50 years ago, it was wonderful to see children, once again, enjoying the start of Christmas, and the Shadow portraits were a delight’.
Elsewhere in the Bay, carols, mince pies, mulled wine, and Christmas jumpers were the feature of the official switching on of Sandown’s festive light display, alongside a library window exhibition of seasonal designs by local school children.
Sandown Deputy Mayor Alex Lightfoot switched the lights on, Rev Mark Williams led the carol service, and librarian Louise Emery arranged refreshments for families and residents that attended the launch.
Councillor Lightfoot said:
“Thanks to Louise and the Library, as well as Rev Williams, for making tonight happen and for all involved in launching the festive lights, as well as a month of fun events for residents and visitors’.
Librarian Louise Emery added:
“It’s lovely to be a part of the launch, with the designs by local school children really brightening up our windows near the tree, and we even have a naughty elf that keeps popping up in different places in the library”.
Sandown has a celebration day today (Saturday), boxing day and new year’s day swims, and firework display on the first day of 2023, as well as a range of activities across the town.
