Local heroes to switch on Exeter’s Christmas lights

Representatives from the Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service are all set to switch on Exeter’s Christmas lights on Thursday 17th November.

Organisers of the Exeter Christmas light switch on event, Exeter BID, have been working to come up with a solution following the errors made by Ben Haenow’s management that, due to a double booking by his agent, Ben Haenow is no longer able to switch on the Christmas lights in Exeter on Thursday 17^th November.

Craig Bulley, Chief Executive Officer of Exeter BID said: ‘It’s disappointing that Ben is no longer able to come to Exeter for the Christmas light switch on event following a double booking by his agent. However, it has given us the opportunity to re-evaluate our options. Taking into consideration the devastating events in the Cathedral Yard and the public’s comments we have invited representatives from the fire service to switch on the city’s Christmas lights. Praise must go to all the emergency services and bodies involved in the efforts to stop the fire and during the aftermath. We feel this is our way of saying thank you for all of their efforts, in particular those of the fire service who worked so hard to fight the terrible fire.’

Representatives from the local fire service will be joined on stage by Exeter Chiefs players, Julian Salvi and Matt Jess to switch on the stunning selection of Christmas lights. The switch on will be part of an afternoon and evening of great festive entertainment.

Chief Fire Officer, Lee Howell of Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service said: ‘We are honoured to be invited to switch on the Christmas lights and look forward to celebrating the beginning of the festive season in Exeter.’

Thousands are expected to flock to Princesshay Square to the free event organised by Exeter BID on the 17^th November with entertainment from 4pm until 8pm. Radio Exe favourites Ashley Jeary, Ben Clark and Chris Dinnis will be hosting the event.

Ashley Jeary of Radio Exe said: ‘We’re really excited to be working with Exeter BID to host this year’s Christmas Light Switch On, with great line up of acts and paying tribute to our local emergency services, it’s a great way to mark the start of the festive season in Exeter’