By Liv Caferoglu and Dom Brock

THE Water Gardens is preparing to switch on its Christmas lights and light up Harlow – and the event promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

The annual event of the Water Gardens switching on Harlow’s Christmas lights takes place on Friday November 18 from 4pm and will be marked by the new inclusion of bright stars, shops staying open later and plenty of live entertainment.

“This year we have invested extra money into more lights – so as well as the usual stunning tree, reindeer and swans in the water, shoppers should look out for bright stars lighting their way down middle street by our shops,” said Alex Herbert of the centre’s marketing team.

“The event itself will start from 4pm and the light switch on is anticipated to be from 5.30pm.

“Some shops will be staying open later like Next until 7pm. Make your restaurant bookings now, they will be busy as families look to dine together after the event.

“Performers to date include Hip Hop Pop, The Harlow Panto Cast, Church Langley School Choir, a Frozen sing-a-long, St. Clare’s Hospice and Harlow’s very own Funky Voice Choir to finish off the evening.”

Herbert also revealed one lucky family that had been supported by St. Clare’s Hospice in times of hardship would be turning the lights on.

“Turning the lights on this year, The Water Gardens is looking to treat/reward a lovely local family – who have suffered a big loss and hard times recently and have been supported by St. Clare’s Hospice,” he continued.

“We can’t say too much at the moment – but we want it to be known that it is our aim to ensure the family have a very special evening and that their Christmas starts in a lovely, supportive way.”

“Beryl Murphy, the centre’s manager, added: “We are really looking forward to The Light Switch On Event this year.

“It is always really well supported by the local community, and we take great pride in providing an excellent Christmas atmosphere with our lights – that should be even brighter and extra special this year!”

Both the switch-on and entertainment events are ticketless and free to attend.