LET THE FESTIVITIES BEGIN! LONG LANE LIGHTS UP FOR 24TH YEAR

A strong and excited crowd gathered for the Long Lane Christmas Lights switch on in Newport earlier tonight (Saturday) with a wintry chill in the air adding to the festive atmosphere. Dawn Haig-Thomas, High Sheriff for the Isle of Wight, officially switched on this year’s display which is lovingly put together every year by Terry and Sue Ramplin. Mrs Haig-Thomas gave an emotive speech about how the efforts of the Ramplins last year meant that 30 men are still with us this Christmas after being tested for prostate cancer – as a direct result of the money raised in 2022. Terry described this year’s preparation as one of the toughest ever, with days on end of torrential rain and windy weather putting real pressure on getting the display complete in time. Thankfully, the weather came good in the end with a dry and calm night for those who arrived at Long Lane to enjoy the festivities. Traditional Christmas music was played by Wight Diamonds Marching Band, with hot refreshments on offer. The lights are on every night between now and New Year with families welcome onto the driveway to enjoy the plethora of lights – with a kind ask of a donation to charity. This year the Ramplins are once again raising money for IW Prostate Cancer Support Group, in the hope of saving more lives. Long Lane is taking part in this year’s Light up the Wight, brought to you by Island Echo and sponsored by Southern Vectis. You can download the official map and vote for your favourite display from Friday 1st December at www.islandecho.co.uk/xmas.