At this year’s celebrity Switch On in Marlow on Thursday, 21st November, Paralympic gold medalist rower Naomi Riches MBE DL led an enthusiastic count down to turn on Marlow’s celebrated Christmas lights.
Hundreds of people braved the cold weather to watch as the ceremony was performed from the top of a double-decker bus in the High Street. ‘Snow’ fell, carols played and street entertainers kept the crowd amused.
“From the moment I moved to Marlow in 2008,” Naomi said, “I knew I wanted to stay in this lovely community. Marlow has supported me through the highs and lows of my career, and Marlow High Street was the only possible choice for my 2012 Gold Post Box. I’m so proud to be asked to switch the lights on this year — it means the world to me.”
Mayor David Brown said. “It’s wonderful to see so many people gather to celebrate the start of the Christmas season in Marlow. Many thanks, Naomi, for supporting our local businesses, charities and community events — and of course, for helping us switch on our Christmas lights this year.”
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.
Image courtesy of Paul Merchant – MyMarlow
