Festive sparkle in Potters Bar

Potters Bar has been given a festive sparkle – for the first time in half a century!

The new Christmas lights, which were officially switched on last Friday (14 December), are thanks to the hard work and dedication of four local residents.

Richard Grove, Head of Planning and Building Control at Hertsmere Borough Council, said:  “I am sure everyone greatly appreciates the tremendous effort by local residents for organising the Christmas lights this year. Without the hard work of John and Lyn Godfrey, and Paul and Marion Elwick, who together have managed to raise over £20,000, there would be no Christmas lights in Potters Bar. Given that the lights had to be put back a year after the delayed implementation of the street lights in Darkes Lane, makes it an even more remarkable achievement.”

John Godfrey, one of the four key fundraisers, said: “We greatly appreciate the money that residents, businesses and other organisations have put into this, without which the lights would not have been possible. It is hoped that next year, the scheme can be expanded and we are already looking forward to a better display covering a wider area of the town centre.  To do this we will need to buy some more Christmas lights and adjust some of the existing street lights, especially in the High Street, to take Christmas lights. This would be expensive, but if everyone gets behind the idea then it is achievable.”

Paul Elwick, said: “It has been a major effort but it well worth it. The lights really complement the street lights put in last year and have certainly improved the look of the town on these dark nights, as well as looking very good during the day. They should also encourage people to come and shop in the town, which can only be a good thing.”

Any firms wishing to contribute towards the costs for next year are encouraged to contact John Godfrey at 151 High Street, Potters Bar.

Photos of the Christmas lights can be seen on the Hertsmere Borough Council website www.hertsmere.gov.uk