Lions Club of Felixstowe – Providers of Christmas Magic

On 9 September we went to see the Lions preparing Felixstowe’s Christmas lights! Every year, near the end of summer, the volunteers meet every Thursday to ensure the lights are ready for Christmas.  

Lions president, Richard Woolnough, said: “We are in the final preparations of finishing the Christmas lights – they’re all being repaired now and we’re just waiting for them to be tested ready to be put up on November 13, ready for Switch-On Day.”

All being well, the Christmas Lights Switch-On Day will take place on Saturday 27 November. Stalls on the Triangle and entertainment from choirs and the Salvation Army can be enjoyed in the afternoon, Santa has been invited and the lights will be switched on at 5pm. If you’d like to have a stall for the afternoon, you can call Chris Finbow on 01394 286513. 

The old sports hall at the former Deben High School site, where the lights are stored, was buzzing with busy Lions. Unique skills (including those in electrical and engineering work) are put into practice each year to design, build, repair and maintain a hall packed with Christmas lights and festive structures. 

We were delighted to see Santa’s sleigh amongst the decorations! Not only do the Lions brighten the town with lights every year, they have also asked Santa if he will visit Felixstowe on Switch-On Day on 27 November to give presents to the children from his grotto on the Triangle.  

The Christmas lights, which are supported by Felixstowe Town Council and sponsored by businesses and organisations in the town, are designed by the Lions and made in partnership with a metalwork company in Ipswich. It wouldn’t be possible for Felixstowe to glow at Christmas without the support from sponsors – and the Lions thank them for their kindness and generosity. 

In our November edition we’ll be hosting the annual Lions Light-Up Programme, where you’ll find lots of information about Light-Up Day, Santa’s tour around Felixstowe and local businesses who are supporting the lights. 

Would you like to become a Lion? President Richard Woolnough said: “We’re always looking for new members. If you feel you want to help the community, come along and join the club. We meet at the Brook Hotel on the first Monday of every month at 7pm. If you’d like to join us, you’ll be welcomed with open arms.”

The work of these dedicated volunteers is inspiring. Hundreds of hours go into preparations, all because the Lions want Felixstowe to glow with festive joy; bringing smiles to residents and visitors of all ages. 

Lighting manager, Philip Weatherhogg, said: “It’s always nice to see the children’s faces when the lights go on. That’s the magic of it.”