CHRISTMAS IS OFFICIALLY UNDERWAY!

by | Nov 16, 2015 | Dartford News

Thousands flock to Bluewater for festive lights switch on

Thousands of people turned out on Friday (13th November) to enjoy Bluewater’s annual Christmas light night. Guests were treated to a dazzling display of lights, lasers and flames and a spectacular firework display to celebrate the start of the festive season. Bluewater’s iconic reindeer were also brought to life through illumination to welcome visitors arriving for the event.

This year the lights were switched on by Heart FM presenter Toby Ansis and Maya Hulse, the young star of Bluewater’s Christmas campaign. Also on-stage was Maya’s family, Father Christmas as well as Snoopy and Woodstock – the characters from The Peanuts movie out this December. Bluewater’s light night marks the start of Christmas shopping hours, with the centre extending its opening hours from 9am – 10pm. From the 7th December, shoppers will also have an extra hour to find the ultimate Christmas gift with all retailers keeping their doors open until 11pm.

Commenting on the event Robert Goodman, Bluewater’s General Manager, said:

“Light Night is one of the most anticipated events in our calendar – and this year was no exception. It was wonderful to see so many people turn out and take part in what was a very memorable evening. The good news though is we’ve only just begun. Our Winter Wonderland and Grotto open next week – complete with ice rink and 4D cinema – so we’re all set to make this Christmas a really magical one for our guests.”

Tickets are on sale now for Santa’s Grotto and ice-skating at Winter Wonderland, which is proudly sponsored by The Peanuts Movie this year. Booking in advance is advised to avoid disappointment.

PANTOMIME FAVOURITE JOE PASQUALE TO STAR IN CINDERELLA AT THE ORCHARD THEATRE

As the clock ticks closer to the biggest ball of the year, The Orchard Theatre is thrilled to announce that Panto Legend JOE PASQUALE is set to return to Dartford later this year to star in the spectacular family pantomime CINDERELLA. A firm favourite with panto...

DARTFORD FC | CLASS OF 2025-26 | MEET SAM ODAUDU

Dartford took on Lewes last month. Chris Palmer spoke to Sam Odaudu, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article: This is Sam Odaudu's fourth full season as a Dartford player. Since making his debut in his...

Ofsted praises Kent primary school in glowing inspection report

A primary school in Dartford has been praised across the board by Ofsted in a glowing inspection report. Inspectors said West Hill Primary Academy, part of the successful Golden Thread Alliance, had achieved a “strong standard” in personal development and wellbeing,...

Bluewater launches search for its first Chief Play Officer ahead of the opening of new play park this month

Bluewater has announced a recruitment drive to search for its first Chief Play Officer (CPO). The unique role has been created to celebrate the official opening of the centre’s transformed Wintergarden play area...

Primary Schools Invited to Join Exciting Community Art Exhibition and Charity Auction- ‘Characters from my favourite book’

Stephen Oliver: Studio & Gallery and We Are Beams are organising a special community art exhibition showcasing the creativity of primary school children to support a cause that makes a real difference to families in their local community. The collaboration invites...

DARTFORD FC WOMEN | CLASS OF 2025-26 | MEET ELLIE DOLBY

Last month, Dartford took on Ramsgate. Chris Palmer spoke to Ellie Dolby, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article: Since her arrival from London City Lionesses at the beginning of last season, Ellie Dolby...

DARTFORD FC | CLASS OF 2025-26 | MEET GEORGE WHITEFIELD

Last month, Dartford took on Ramsgate. Chris Palmer spoke to George Whitefield, who featured in the matchday programme for that fixture. For those who missed it, here is the article: Back in the 2023-24, George Whitefield made seven appearances (four starts) for the...

Local racer joins UK first all female MINI CHALLENGE racing team

Local racer Lexie Powell, West Kingsdown, has joined the Wera Alliance Racing Academy for a season in the MINI CHALLENGE Trophy Championship. The cars are being run by Team Avago. Making up the rest of the are Ellena Reece, Beanie Reece and Liona Theobald. Lexie...

We Are Beams is delighted to announce that British racing driver Nicolas Hamilton has officially joined the charity as a Patron

Nicolas who is the half-brother of Formula One World Champion Lewis Hamilton made history by competing in the British Touring Car Championship while living with Cerebral Palsy. He is a living testament to the fact that a diagnosis does not have to define a...

“Do you know anyone  ageing  without children?  I bet you do!” 

Having recently been ill and having no children or partner to help me, it has become increasingly important for me to have contact with like-minded people. I am on Facebook so I have often looked at a website called “Ageing Without Children UK” (AWOC). I recently made...