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Naomi Riches MBE to ‘Switch On’ Marlow’s Christmas Lights this year

Paralympic gold medalist rower Naomi Riches MBE DL will switch on Marlow’s celebrated Christmas lights this year on Thursday, 21st November.

“We’re delighted that Naomi has agreed to do our celebrity Switch On this year,” Mayor David Brown said. “Naomi has been part of the Marlow community ever since she moved here, supporting local businesses, charities and community events with enthusiasm. We look forward to seeing her light up our wonderful Christmas lights display.”

“Marlow is a very special town,” Naomi said. “It welcomed me as an already successful athlete in 2008, then supported me through the highs and the lows of my GB Rowing career… so Marlow High Street was the only possible choice for my 2012 Gold Post Box.”

Diagnosed with a severe visual impairment when she was very young, Naomi’s life was expected to be full of challenges and barriers. But during her decade in rowing she won six World titles, a World Silver, a Bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games and a Gold at the London 2012 Paralympics. After winning her first two World Rowing Championships in 2004 and 2005, she joined Marlow Rowing Club, where she still trains. She moved to Marlow in 2008 and after the 2012 games gave Marlow its Gold Post Box.  

The event starts at 6.00 pm, with the Switch On at 6.30pm. ‘Snow’ will fall in the High Street as people gather to listen to carols and festive music around the double-decker bus, which will be stationed at the junction of the High Street and Institute Road. Street entertainers will stroll along the High Street as people gather to enjoy the start of the Christmas season. 

Marlow’s Christmas lights display has become a popular draw for visitors, bringing many people into the town to shop and enjoy the coffee shops, bars and restaurants in and around the High Street.

The High Street will be closed from 3.30 – 8.00 pm.