Last updated 11:26, Saturday, 22 November 2008

Well done to one and all for a brilliant day’s entertainment at Carlisle on Sunday, culminating in the switch on of the city’s eye-opening Christmas lights.

Star: Andrew Johnston was the highlight of Carlisle’s Christmas lights switch-on

The ABBA tribute act Swede Dreamz were simply superb and it was a pleasant surprise to meet up with Ken White, as I worked with him on Carlisle’s 28 day radio station Cityvibe FM in 2005. I wish the act every success in the future.

Men in Black were an acquired taste, but all the same, they were very good and so loud that I could still hear them when I reached Botchergate.

The carol service brought a few tears to my eyes as I thought of my late sister, Teresa. Long may Eden Valley Hospice keep up their brilliant work.

David McNeill’s double act with Robbie Dee just keeps getting better, dafter and more surreal as time goes by.

However, the indisputable star of the show was Andrew Johnston – his version of I Have A Dream well and truly captivated the audience. He is a true ambassador for Cumbria and, I believe, he will take on America and win.

I am already looking forward to the big switch-on at Workington tomorrow, especially to see the lovely Caroline Fisher perform.

I first met Caroline when we were finalists in the Red Raw Talent Show during Workington’s Paint The Town Red Festival, and her version of Fields of Gold was in a different class – she thoroughly deserved her victory that day and, above all, she is a very modest and likeable lady.

Although Workington’s event is on a smaller scale compared to Carlisle, it can still draw the crowds and since the town’s regeneration, the lights have improved considerably.

Workington’s light switch-on promises to be every bit as memorable as Carlisle’s was – and I just can’t wait.

To anyone who’s never been – get yourself down, you won’t be disappointed.

JOHN HASTINGS
Moss Bay Road
Workington