Christmas Lights Switch On 2025
Are you looking forward to this year’s Christmas Lights Switch On? We are pleased to confirm this year’s event will be taking place on Thursday 20th November from 6pm
Christmas Lights Switch On 2024
Naomi Riches MBE to ‘Switch On’ Marlow’s Christmas Lights this year
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
Image courtesy of Paul Merchant – MyMarlow
Image courtesy of Paul Merchant – MyMarlow
Image courtesy of Jon Perry – Marlow Camera Club
Image courtesy of Paul Merchant – MyMarlow
Christmas Lights Switch On 2023
The crowds thronged to Marlow High Street once again last night, Thursday, 23rd November, to watch as Robert Thorogood, local resident, screenwriter and author ‘flicked the switch’ to turn on the town’s spectacular Christmas lights display.
‘Snow’ fell along the packed High Street and stilt walkers dressed as Nutcracker Soldiers, Candy Canes, Mother Christmas and the Snow Queen entertained the crowds.
From the top of a double-decker bus outside the Chequers pub, Robert said: “When we arrived in Marlow ten years ago, the town couldn’t have been more welcoming. This town is a true community and Marlovians are generous to a fault.
“My series of murder mysteries is set in Marlow. The first book is being made into a TV show, filmed right here. Everything is featured – the church, the Chequers, the gold post box in the High Street — even Fred Smith, our postman. In my next book, I kill the Mayor of Marlow – so I doubt I’ll be asked to do this again!”
Mayor David Brown said: “It’s wonderful to see so many Marlovians in the town tonight to celebrate the Christmas season with the switching-on of our fantastic lights. I can’t thank our generous sponsors enough; without them it wouldn’t be possible. Have a Happy Christmas everyone!”
Christmas Lights Switch On 2022
24 November 2022
Peter Jones fires up Marlow’s Christmas Lights
Hundreds flock to celebrate the start of the Christmas season
At this year’s celebrity Switch-On, Dragons’ Den star Peter Jones illuminated the stunning display of Christmas lights in Marlow town centre.
Hundreds of families flocked to the High Street to mark the occasion amid ‘real’ snow. Entertainment included ‘cheeky elves’ and stilt walkers, while Marlow FM broadcast live and played festive songs to the crowds.
From the top level of the double-decker bus parked in the High Street, Peter said: “I’m thrilled to switch the Christmas lights on here in Marlow, my global investment HQ for nearly 20 years. Every day I deliberately drive along the High Street, often stopping for coffee or look around the shops – it’s a good start to my day. Marlow is a very special place.”
Mayor Richard Scott said: “It’s brilliant to see so many people come to celebrate the Switch On of our wonderful Christmas lights this year, and we’re delighted that Peter was able to accept our invitation to turn them on. Thank you to him, to all our generous sponsors, and to everyone for coming — I wish you all a very Happy Christmas.”
