Tadley gives Christmas a royal welcome with panto stars

The lights were turned on at an event on Friday, November 25.

Starting at 6pm, the event was MCed by Cllr David Leaks, with entertainment provided by Tadley Band and Burnham Copse Choir.

Rachel Grundy and Joseph Hewlett, who are playing Cinderella and Prince Charming in The Anvil production of Cinderella, joined Tadley Parish Councillor and Chairman Avril Burdet and Kit Malthouse MP to switch on the lights at 7pm.

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L-R: Avril Burdett, Joseph Hewlett, Rachel Grundy and Kit Malthouse MP (Credit: Sean Dillow) (Image: Sean Dillow)Ms Burdet said that the event was “absolutely brilliant”.

She continued: “Despite clashing with the football match it was really well attended.

“Lots of funds were raised for the local food pantry, and there was some lovely singing by the little ones from the local school.

“The Cinderella and Prince Charming were great fun, they were superb; they came in costume, which was lovely, and of course they were presented with Tadley brooms, made in Tadley by the group who have a Royal warrant to make them, which is always a tradition.

Panto stars Joseph Hewlett and Rachel Grundy with Tadley brooms (Credit: Sean Dillow) (Image: Sean Dillow)“There were lots to do, lots to see, lots of people around, it was absolutely great; even the weather was kind.”

Mr Malthouse added: “Christmas starts for me with turning on the lights in Tadley.

“It’s always such a friendly festive evening, and so much fun to share the stage with the panto stars - a reminder this year of what some might think has been a bit of a pantomime in Westminster!

“I hope everyone in Tadley and beyond has a very Happy Christmas.”