Christmas lights switch-on

Inspirational Jade brings Christmas spirit

A huge cheer went up from the crowd of hundreds packed into The Square, as fundraiser Jade Kingdom pushed the button to switch on South Molton’s Christmas lights. She was joined on stage by Mayor Mervyn Way, presenters from radio station SoundWave - and Father Christmas!

The evening kicked off the festive season in fine style, and was raising much needed funds for North Devon Hospice. Jade has Downs Syndrome, but set herself the challenge of completing the London triathlon in August, raising almost £20,000 for the charity so far.

“We’re so honoured that Jade has chosen to support North Devon Hospice with her

The town centre sparkling Photo: Pete Robinson

fundraising, it’s been an absolute honour to follow her journey and she has funded so much vital care through her work it’s absolutely amazing,” said Jadeen Lowe, community and events fundraiser for the hospice.

Drummers entertain the crowd Photo: Karolina Andreasova

“We are truly grateful to the people of South Molton and we thank them so much, the town council and everyone in the community who has come out at put some pennies in our donation buckets - it’s wonderful to be back among everyone.” (continued on page 28)

Jade pushes the button to switch on the lights Photos: Karolina Andreasova

Jade Kingdom on stage with Mayor Mervyn Way and Father Christmas - continued on page 28

The next big event in the run up to Christmas is Winter Wonderland by Day, on Sunday December 5th in South Molton Pannier Market and the Assembly Rooms between 10am and 3pm.

Organised by South Molton Business Association, it will feature a variety of stalls, arts and entertainment, plus food and drink sellers - and there will be plenty of opportunity to enjoy a family day out and catch up on Christmas shopping (see advert on page 12, and more info page 53). Molton Monthly is proud to be a sponsor of SMBA.

Any profits raised through this event will be used to support the town and local businesses. For updates follow South Molton Business Association on Facebook or see: smba.info/

Photo: Pete Robinson