Favourite local football club AFC Wimbledon will be helping Father Christmas and Mayor of Merton Councillor Oonagh Moulton switch on Merton’s Christmas lights this year.

The celebrations kick off Wednesday 24 November at 5.30pm and everyone is welcome. After carols and Christmas music from local school children and community choir Inspire, the lights will be switched on from the balcony of the civic centre in Morden just across from Morden tube station.

Sainsbury’s will be laying on appetising apple pies. Irish pub Ganleys will be supplying mulled wine to keep everyone warm and in good voice, and the National Trust will be getting everyone in the Christmas spirit with delicious mince pies. The Family Baker in Morden will also be providing cakes and local Italian restaurant Bella Donna will give us a taste of Italy with their panettone.

The council is opening Morden Library especially for the occasion. Between 5pm and 7pm Wimbledon fans will be able to admire the Wimbledon FC memorabilia from the glory days, displayed on the ground floor.

Councillor Martin Whelton, cabinet member for community and culture, said: “We want everyone from across the borough to come and join us for the switch on of the Christmas lights and to enjoy the entertainment. It’s going to be a great evening and I’m so delighted that AFC Wimbledon, businesses, schools and choir are helping us celebrate Christmas.

Jane Scott from Inspire said: “We are looking forward to singing our hearts out with everyone, including the AFC Wimbledon players, in switching on Merton’s Christmas lights.”

Ivor Heller from AFC Wimbledon said: “It is an honour to be turning on the Christmas lights in our spiritual home, Merton.

-ENDS-