The annual event, which is hosted by Well Wishers – the Trust’s official charity – is taking place this Friday 1 December from 2.30pm in the Main Atrium of Walsall Manor Hospital.

It will be hosted by Paul Assinder, Deputy Trust Chair and Chair of the charity and will be supported by some special guests to provide a traditional festive, family feel.

Both Chaplaincy and members of the newly-formed Trust choir will be singing ‘We’re walking in the air’ from The Snowman.

Following this, members from The Wyrley Pretenders will be brightening up the afternoon with a song from their 2023 production, The Wizard of Oz.

Last Christmas reindeer Mistletoe and George were seasonal guests and this year George is back with baby Flash who is the latest addition to the Phoenix Foundation. Both will be supporting Santa Claus in the Main Atrium next to the Christmas tree for the lights switch-on.

The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Chris Towe, is doing the honours of switching on the lights following the big countdown.

After this, there will be a blessing from the Chaplaincy Team before a Christmas surprise from Ward 4 and finally the choir will lead the crowd into a medley of carols to finish the afternoon on a high.

A Christmas market will also be taking place from 9am-5pm in the Main Atrium.

Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager, and Kim Aplin, Fundraising Support Officer, said:

“Our lights switch-on is such a special event for the charity as it is a chance for staff, visitors and patients to stop and enjoy a pre-Christmas treat. Whether there to observe the whole event or just coming along for five minutes as they pass through – we want everyone to feel the Christmas spirit and enjoy themselves.

“Everyone loved the reindeer last time and we’re so excited to see them put a smile on people’s faces again this time round. We also think our Ward 4 Christmas surprise will certainly bring smiles and entertainment.

“We’re really pleased that our charity Chair, The Wyrley Pretenders, Chaplaincy Team, Trust Choir and market stall holders will be joining us and helping to provide a festive atmosphere.

“For all those who can, we hope to see you join us for our Christmas lights switch on event for 2023, it’s going to be tree-mendous!”