MARYPORT will see Christmas arrive back to the town later this month when the annual light switch on returns for the first time sine the Covid pandemic.

The celebrations will return all over the town at the end of November, with everything from a Santa’s grotto to stalls selling sweet and savoury treats.

The main event will take place in Senhouse Street in Maryport, where the Christmas lights will be switched on.

The switch on is expected to take place at 5.30pm on Saturday, November 27, with entertainment starting from noon.

A spokesman for Maryport Town Council, said: “Maryport Christmas lights will be switched on this year at the end of November

“The town council is making arrangements for a programme of family entertainment, with children at its heart of course, to be held during the afternoon of that day, leading up to the big switch-on at 5pm.”

The programme so far will feature live singers in the town from 2pm onwards, with performances from Netherhall School Choir and singer Ellie Rowley.

There will be plate spinning and a ribbon show, Cheer Force Knights – a cheerleading and stunt group will perform.

Maryport Amateur Operatic Society will also be at the event bringing some festive cheer and there will be a number of games for both adults and children

The council spokesman said: “There will be a whole host of other activities.

“The famous Santa’s Grotto will return once again to the Labour Club where children will be able to see Father Christmas.”

Last year the event was cancelled in its usual form due to Covid – with the town council opting to do a virtual switch on last year and residents and former residents of Maryport enjoyed a special guided tour of the town’s Christmas lights

Town clerk Lisa Douglas said the virtual sleigh ride was viewed 9,000 times on social media.