THE Halesworth Christmas lights will be switched on by 12 young ladies, dressed in 1940s style uniforms.Dudley Clarke, chairman of the organising committee, stumbled upon a photograph of a group of women who are putting togethera wartime calendar to raise money for the Royal British Legion, inspired by Claire Haslam-Wise of Bury St Edmunds.

THE Halesworth Christmas lights will be switched on by 12 young ladies, dressed in 1940s style uniforms.

Dudley Clarke, chairman of the organising committee, stumbled upon a photograph of a group of women who are putting together

a wartime calendar to raise money for the Royal British Legion, inspired by Claire Haslam-Wise of Bury St Edmunds.

A long-term member of the Royal Air Force and current legion member, Mr Clarke offered the group the special role and an opportunity to sell the calendar in Halesworth on the day of festive celebrations, Saturday, December 5.

Mr Clarke said he was delighted that people in the town will be given the opportunity to support the worthy cause.

Claire's grandfather, father and brother all served in the armed forces, providing her with the inspiration for this special fund raising project.

The fun begins at 2pm with music in the Thoroughfare and at 4.10pm the Southwold and Reydon Corps of Drums and Bugles will lead a procession of children, playing and singing carols as they march through the town centre, accompanied by Santa and the Beach Bunny,

Claire will lead the light illuminations at 4.30pm outside the Angel Hotel, before the grand Christmas draw takes place on stage.

An address will be given by the Rev Liz Canham, and crowds will be wowed with a pyrotechnic display from St Mary's Church and a rousing concert from the Austin Beats.

Santa's grotto, a hog roast, coffee bar and face painting will also feature.