STAFF of a town centre pub stepped in at the last minute to save the build-up to the switch-on of the Christmas lights in Chepstow.

With high winds forecast, the decision was taken late on Friday was not to have the usual stage in Beaufort Square for local performers on Saturday afternoon.

The popular curtain-raiser to the arrival of Santa went ahead thanks to the White Lion pub which made its function room available.

Town mayor Cllr Dale Rooke said: “Thankfully,with the resourcefulness of Chepstow Town Council staff and the goodwill of the emplyees and management of the White Lion the switch-on was able to go-ahead. It was great that so many people still turned out to watch the switch-on.”

“The winds were just too strong and we couldn’t risk it in the Beaufort Square but quick thinking meant we were ready to go so we said that we will light the display at the top of the high street instead.”

“It was a really great atmosphere and there were smiles on faces everywhere you looked.”

“Our Christmas market in the High Street was a big success and there were lots of stalls selling all kinds of things.

“Some did unfortunately decide to pack up a little earlier than planned because of the weather but there was still plenty going on and lots to do.”

There were performances by Chepstow School’s folk and soul band, Chepstow Musical Youth Theatre, Chaos – Chepstow Operatic Society, Chepstow Community Big Band, Chepstow Rock Choir, The Dell School’s musical theatre group, Pembroke School choir and the Wyedean Gospel Choir.

There were performances on stage at Caldicot’s big event with children from Castle Park and Dewstow primary schools, Caldicot School pupil Dylan Hannan, Caldicot Musical Theatre Society and the Serenata Ladies’ Choir.

The lights were switched on by Santa with the assistance of Newport East MP Jessica Morden and local Assembly Member John Griffiths.

It was organised by the Caldicot Events Committee and town mayor Cllr Dave Evans announced that the winner of the best shop display was Country Flowers.

•See this week’s Review for more photographs.