West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin was invited to start Christmas celebrations in Malvern Link, switching on the festive lights and joining the crowd carol singing around the tree.

Before the switch on, Harriett was accompanied by Malvern Town mayor Councillor Nick Houghton, in a tour of the shops, pubs and restaurants in the Link and chatted to local people as well as doing a spot of Christmas shopping.

The event, which was organised by Malvern Link business owner Phil Ironside, attracted hundreds of people to join the festivities and enjoy some late night shopping.

Harriett said:

“I was grateful for the guided tour led by Phil Ironside and I got the chance to chat to many business owners in Malvern Link.

“Phil is full of enthusiasm and has some great plans to attract more people to come and spend their money with businesses along Worcester Road. It’s so important that we shop local and support our local independent shops.

“I’ve been impressed by the large number of new businesses that have opened up in the last year and it is clearly a vibrant community.

“I was delighted to be asked to switch on the Christmas lights and I hope that people took the opportunity to do a spot of shopping and enjoy the festive cheer.”

Malvern’s Mayor Nick Houghton added: 

“Shopping confidence is returning and local independent businesses are here to serve local shoppers. It is great to see local business thriving. Malvern Town Council were pleased to support the event by donating the Christmas Tree.”

Photo: Freya Matthews-Jones, with Ted, Malvern’s Mayor Nick Houghton, Councillor Karen Hanks, Phil Ironside and Harriett Baldwin MP.

Harriett Baldwin MP switches on the Xmas lights in Malvern Link.