TWO Chester businesses have come together to raise thousands of pounds to ensure the city’s Christmas lights will be switched on this year.

Legal firm Aaron & Partners and chartered accountants Bennett Brooks are leading a group of local firms sponsoring Chester’s Christmas lights and tree, after the Council announced in its February budget that it would no longer be funded by the local authority.

Thanks in part to the festive kindness of teams from Aaron & Partners and Bennett Brooks, plus the financial assistance of other professional services firms such as Savills, Manleys Solicitors and Leonard Curtis, the traditional Christmas lights are set to light up the city centre once again this year.

The lights will illuminate the city for the entire festive period, from November 15 as the Chester Christmas Market opens.

Helen Johnson, Partner and Head of Marketing at Aaron & Partners, said: “The city’s Christmas lights are so important to create the magical feel of Christmas in Chester for local residents and visitors, including many of our staff who live here in the city.

“Not only do they make our city look brilliant, they’re also key to the local economy, with visitors coming from far and wide to spend money in our shops, restaurants and bars.

“So, when we heard they were at risk this year, we knew we needed to do something to help.

“It’s been truly heartwarming to see local professional services come together to help ensure the magic of Christmas can continue this year. It shows the true spirit of Chester: a collaborative, supportive and tight knit community.

“We’re proud to be part of this collective effort to make this festive season one to remember.”

Aaron & Partners usually hosts its annual Carols in the Courtyard event at its offices in Grosvenor Court to welcome in the festive season, raising money and donations for West Cheshire Foodbank in the process, and featuring performances from local groups such as the Chester Rock Choir and City of Chester Brass Band. However, the firm has changed up this year’s event to be called Carols in the City – moving it to Town Hall Square, with funds usually allocated to hosting the evening set to be donated to support the city’s Christmas lights costs instead. 

The team will also still be collecting money and food parcels for West Cheshire Foodbank in the run up to the revamped event on December 4, with drop offs at Aaron & Partners’ offices in Grosvenor Court, at Bennett Brooks’ new location in the Coachworks Arcade, and at The Storyhouse. The foodbank’s wishlist for donated goods can be found on its website. 

Councillor Karen Shore, Deputy Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council and Cabinet Member for Environment, Highways and Transport, said: “The festive lights and Christmas tree are integral to creating a magical atmosphere in our city, encouraging community spirit, and attracting visitors who contribute to our local businesses in lots of different ways.

“We’re delighted that after reaching out to community-minded businesses and organisations, they have stepped up to ensure that our city remains a vibrant and welcoming place during the festive season. Thank you to all the businesses sponsoring this year’s Christmas lights. I’m sure the thousands of visitors, shoppers and residents will enjoy the magic of our city centre at Christmas.”

The Carols in the City event will take place in the Town Hall Square next to the Christmas Market on Wednesday, December 4 from 5pm. All are welcome to join in – and attendance is free.