Warlingham is gearing up for yet another spectacular Christmas Lights switching on ceremony with more lights than ever, when Christmas officially starts on Saturday November 16 at Warlingham Green.

The festivities surrounding the switching-on ceremony will begin at 3.30pm, building up to the children of local primary schools setting out on the traditional lantern parade around the centre of the village at around 4.45pm, led, as always, by the Warlingham Flute Band. The lights themselves will be switched on at 5pm, followed by carols from a combined children's choir.

As is now traditional, anyone who goes to The Green between 3.30pm and 4.55pm will have the chance to join in with the very special raffle, with the sole prize being the right to switch on the lights.

There will also be plenty of things to do for all the family before and after the ceremony. These include a Christmas market in the Village Hall and stalls in the Church Hall from 3.30pm, and from 5.15pm Santa will be in his grotto in the Church Hall. Throughout the event there will be children's rides and lots to eat and drink, including mulled wine.

Many of the businesses around The Green will remain open late or be staging special events. Volunteers will also be raising money with collections, raffles and the sale of badges.

The organisers still need as many volunteers as they can get to be stewards, collectors and general helpers on the night. So if you would like to get involved, call Wendy on 01883 623025.

The lights are supported entirely by donations, fund raising, contributions from local businesses and a grant from the Parish Council.

Anyone with an interest in the lights is invited to the feedback meeting at 7.30pm on Thursday 5th December at the Mission Room, Chapel Road, Warlingham.

Find out more at www/warlinghamlights.org.uk or find us on Facebook by searching for Warlingham Christmas Lights.