Thousands enjoy the annoual Pitshanger Light Up

Christmas has officially begun in Ealing - we know because Pitshanger is all lit up.

‘Light up the Lane’ is an annual event, run by the PCA in co-operation with the Pitshanger Traders.

This year an estimated 3,000 people gathered to enjoy shows put on by dance troupes, bands and school choirs. As well as making a dent in their Christmas shopping.

Ealing Trailfinders Rugby Club brought along Bruno the bear (as pictured) and together they launched their racy charity calendar, which features players stripped down and oiled up, to raise funds for their former team mate and captain’s, Jack Fishwick Discretionary Trust Fund. Jack suffered server injuries as a result of an injury on the pitch.

Steve Pound MP, Ealing Mayor Taj Ram Bagha and PCA (Pitshanger Community Association) Chair Karen West, hit the button that lit the trees lining the lane. Santa also stopped by, tempted by the mince pies, mulled wine and cheery tree lights, that will illuminate the lane until the twelfth night.

Dr Rupa Huq, Labour’s prospective parliamentary candidate in Ealing Central and Acton, went along to browse the stalls and shops. She said:

“I grew up in Brunswick Road so I have been coming to Pitshanger Lane since I can remember. It is wonderful to see how this community supports its local retailers. The atmosphere this evening has been infused with festive cheer, it’s great to see such a thriving local economy. Let’s hope the coming weeks bring even more people to see this stunning avenue of sparkling trees and sample all that is on offer in the shops and stalls.”

4th December 2014