THE first Independent Traders’ Christmas Switch-on in Wellington on Saturday was a ‘huge success’.

“It was great to see all the traders coming together and the community fully supporting us,” said one of the organisers Sally Hooper, of Mad Dog in South Street.

“It was so successful we plan to do it again next year. It is just a pity the town council is not working with us.

“It would be nice to have them on board next year.

“The traders feel that the council’s switch-on on Satur-

day, December 3, is too late for them.

“The shops looked festive and fabulous when their lights went on together at the end of the event.”

The big worry on Saturday was the weather but the event was rain-free for much of the day.

“It’s November so you have to expect poor weather,” added Sally. “But we feel we were very fortunate.”

Apart from the stalls in South Street, the event included plenty of music from schoolchildren and local bands throughout the day, and festive refreshments. There was also a visit from Santa and an adventure grotto in the Scout Hall.

The traders are already looking to raise money for next year’s event and are holding a race night at the local rugby club on Saturday.