Winchester Christmas lights switched on by Jessica Giles

Thousands of people gathered on The Broadway, outside the Guildhall, to watch performances from local groups.

At 6pm, the lights were switched on by Jessica Giles who was nominated in Winchester BID's ‘search for a local hero’ campaign. 

As a single mum, Jessica threw herself into helping the local community during lockdown, setting up the Give A Little Facebook page to encourage people to share what they had and didn’t need. Now with 11,000 followers, Jessica has engaged with over 600 businesses who each give her free items via the Give A Little Facebook page.

After the countdown, lights along the High Street, on the Guildhall and the tree at the Buttercross lit up the city centre.

Groups such as Winchester A Cappella, Pilgrim's School Chamber Choir, Harestock Primary School Choir, the Spitfire Sisters and Diva Academy entertained the crowd throughout the evening.

After the lights had been switched on, Jessica said: “That was incredible, it's just wonderful to know you've done something so good. 

“The idea came about when I went to the school gate of Stanmore Primary School and I was told that some parents couldn't give any presents to their kids. So I thought how can I help the community? So I created Give A Little. I needed to see some good in the world and I wanted to help others. It's insane that it's got 11,000 followers in a year. 

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“We've supported so many people that have nothing. People who have no food and no furniture. We have 600 businesses on the page who can use the platform to give things away and to promote their work. It has been an incredible journey.

“My daughter Florence is four, Lillian is eight and they're so incredibly proud of what we have achieved. I believed in the charity from day one and I want to see it grow even more.”

The event was organised by Winchester BID. Paul Spencer, executive director, said: “It has been a great turnout, thankfully the weather has been ok. It's a great community event. All of the performances are linked with local community groups, it's a real feel-good mood and a great event to kickstart Christmas in Winchester.

“Jess had made a really big impact on people here in Winchester, so the community this year wanted to show their thanks to her.”

There are more Christmas events coming up with Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market starts on November 18, with the Lantern Parade in the evening.