Oatlands traders ’bounce back’

Leeds Road traders have organised a festive light switch on event after a difficult year. Traders on the road complained of dwindling visitor numbers after roadworks for the new M&S caused chaos. Chair of the Oatlands traders committee Toni Medri said: “We have bounced back. It really is something special. We have never done anything like this before but we want to keep getting bigger and better.”

NADV 1411115AM1 Oatlands Traders Xmas Lights. Melanie Barningham (Marsden Pharmacy), Ruth Mason (Blamey's Florist), Graham Carter(Cafe Culture) Chris Thompson(Travel Talk) Liam Parkinson(Co op), Tony Medri (chairman), Sue James (Damien James) and Ben Gibbs(Oatlands Mount Post Office.(1411115AM1)

The event starts at 4.30pm on Saturday November 15, with the big switch on at 5pm.

Alex Cann and Liam Scott from Stray FM will host the event and the Mayor of Harrogate, Coun Jim Clark will be there along with 35 children from Oatlands Junior school who will sing Christmas carols.

There will also be free mulled wine and Santa has over 150 gifts to give away to the younger children.