Bremner to make a festive impression in Lechlade (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Bremner to make a festive impression in Lechlade

MAN of many voices Rory Bremner has agreed to switch on this year's Christmas lights in Lechlade.

The impressionist - who first rose to prominence as one of the Spitting Image cast in the 1980s before embarking on a successful solo career - will be guest of honour at the town's lighting up party on Thursday, December 4.

Mr Bremner, 42, who lives in Eaton Hastings, near Lechlade, will flick the switch to illuminate the town in a festive glow as part of the evening which starts at 7pm.

Lechlade Chamber of Commerce secured his appearance, after it set up a committee to find a celebrity for the ceremony with a local connection. Chairman Peter Whistler, who runs a gallery in the town's High Street, instigated Mr Bremner's involvement.

He said: "His personal assistant is a customer of mine. I got to know her and I approached her and said did she think it was a possibility, and after a few phone calls he agreed to do it."

The star, who once said, "I can't look at John Prescott without thinking of Les Dawson", is giving his time free of charge.

Mr Whistler added: "I think he appreciates it's a relatively low-key village cum town event.

"He's a very popular guy and I think he will be absolutely perfect for us."

The lights will be turned on from a podium in the Market Place, where the Christmas tree will be placed.

Swindon Salvation Army Band and St Lawrence Church Choir will provide music, Santa Claus will pay a visit and festive food such as hot mince pies will be among the many stalls on display.

Children from St Lawrence Primary School will also lead a procession through the town.

To encourage awareness of businesses in the town centre children will be invited to take part in a treasure hunt around the town's shops.

They will need to find the location of pictures of the 12 days of Christmas and write them on an answer sheet which will form the word for something that is traditionally eaten at Christmas.