We’re Wet But We’re Happy!

IT takes more than a bit of rain to dampen the spirits of the people of Thame when it comes to Christmas – especially if they’re given good entertainment, hot food and community singing.
All those things, and a jolly TV celebrity/Member of Parliament who doesn’t mind ‘the mick’ being taken out of him by a Thame Councillor, (who else but Don Butler) all helped an umbrella toting audience of Thame families to forget they were getting drenched, and join together to cheer Boris Johnson as he switched on the Christmas tree lights.

Friday’s event was the third year in a row when horrible weather arrived just in time for the festivities to begin, but the presence of a Town Crier, Elvis tribute performer, ‘Elvis Smelvis’, The Thame Town Band and Carols from all three primary schools in the town, succeeded in carrying the Christmas message of good cheer to the 400 or so local people who braved the weather.
Hot food was provided by an English Hog Roast, and hot crepes available from a French stall of ‘goodies’ from Thame’s twin town of Montesson – two of the stallholders keeping themselves warm by giving a very creditable demonstration of Jiving to Elvis Smelvis’s rendering of many of ‘The King’s’ greatest numbers.

Other entertainment was provided by Thame Youth Theatre and members of the cast of ‘Aladdin’,Thame Players panto this year. Father Christmas dropped by in his sleigh (courtesy of Thame Round Table) and the Reverend Ian Mountford gave a Christmas blessing.

The award for bravery must go to the children and adults who took part in a Christmas pageant from outside Waitrose, walking around the town centre trying to find a bed for the night at one of the local inns, for Mary and Joseph. Despite the weather they strolled on their way singing, reminding everyone what the true meaning of Christmas is.

MORE PHOTOS AT: Link to flickr