RESIDENTS, businesses, the mayor and a former AFC Bournemouth chairman braved the cold to take part in a warm festive switch on. 

Hundreds gathered at Westbourne Christmas Tree on Saturday evening, November 30 to mark the beginning of the festive season. 

Former Cherries chairman Jeff Mostyn joined Bournemouth mayor George Farquhar to together switch on the lights, organised by the Coastal BID. 

Residents were treated to a performance from the Rock Choir, who sung Christmas favourites and a bit of Robbie Williams. 

(Image: Daily Echo)

Kelly Jones, from Bournemouth, visited with her two young children. She said: “It’s just a nice, community event for us to come to. 

“The lights look great and what a gent the mayor is.” 

Jeff said: “What an absolute honour and a privilege it is for me to be here with everybody and celebrate what we hope is the start of Christmas.” 

He added: “There are a lot of people that are less fortunate than most of us that are here tonight, and we should all give thought to those people that are in need, elderly people, those that are not so well. 

“If you have an opportunity to help anybody in our conurbation, then please look after our own.” 

(Image: Daily Echo) (Image: Daily Echo)

George Farquhar, mayor of Bournemouth, said: “One of the things which I'm so pleased about is the community feel that's here.  

“I've been talking to people that been supporting one another, making sure that people that have accessibility needs this got out here tonight. 

He added: “I'd just like to say a huge thank you to the Coastal BID, who have put on the events that are in Westbourne.” 

The lights were switched on at 5.15pm, with a meet and greet with Jeff taking place at the Westbird Café Bar afterwards. 

Festivities kicked off early in Westbourne, with the Mellor Sisters performing at The Hutch in the morning and from the early afternoon, a show from Maravai. 

Fiona McArthur, representing Bournemouth Coastal BID, said: "We’re delighted to bring the sparkle of Christmas to Westbourne with our stunning lights and festive displays.  

“A big thank you to Jeff Mostyn and the Mayor for joining us in this wonderful celebration.” 

Fiona McArthur, head of the BID, added: “Coastal BID has been working hard to help support the wonderful traders and community in Westbourne.

"We hope our Christmas lights and tree will bring sparkle to the festive season and help compliment the trader's gorgeous window displays that they have all put so much effort into creating. 

"Don’t forget next Saturday, December 7 will be a magical day in Westbourne where Santa, donkeys, the Bournemouth Goats, singers and stilt walkers and entertainers will be bringing the spirit of Christmas to Westbourne. We hope to see you then."