An exercise specialist who has helped hundreds of cancer survivors get back to fitness has been chosen to switch on this year's Christmas lights.
Following a variety of worthy nominations from the Falmouth community for the switch-on this year, Steve Winnan has been successfully nominated to switch on the Falmouth Christmas lights.
As a cancer exercise specialist, Mr Winnan has been responsible for delivering the Active Pants group exercise programme for cancer survivors for over 12 years.
This is a charitable initiative funded by Pants Cancer, which has made a huge difference to the lives of hundreds of people who are undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment.
Commenting on the recognition, Mr Winnan said: “I am deeply humbled and honoured to accept the nomination to switch on the Falmouth Christmas lights on behalf of the Pants Cancer Charity.
"Having worked with this amazing organisation for over a decade, I am incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together. My rehabilitation programme has supported many people in Cornwall and beyond—not only through physical recovery but also by offering friendship and emotional support when it’s needed most.
"Cancer affects everyone, and this honour is for all whose lives have been challenged by this disease. While we continue to hope for a cure, our commitment remains to stand by and support those impacted. Together we make small steps every day to make a big difference. Thank you for your continued support.”
Each year, the Town Team, to recognise the strength of Falmouth’s community spirit, invites nominations from local residents and organisations to switch on the town’s Christmas lights. This is a tradition that has been extremely well received and supported.
The Christmas Lights Switch-on and parade is a special Falmouth tradition and one that kick starts the festive period in the town.
The evening commences at 5.15pm with a live performance from Sing Choir on The Moor festive stage, while the Christmas parade prepares to leave Events Square and make its way to The Moor.
When the parade arrives at The Moor, local choirs, bands and schools will perform on the stage before Mr Winnan switches on the 2024 Falmouth Christmas lights at 7pm.
Richard Gates, Falmouth Town Manager said: “We would like to thank all those who took the time to send in nominations this year.
"The Falmouth Christmas lights switch-on promises to be a special event once again and we are very pleased that Steve Winnan has been nominated by the local community to switch-on the lights.”
Falmouth Christmas Lights Switch-on evening schedule:
• 5.15pm – Sing Choir takes the stage on The Moor to perform festive favourites.
• 5.40pm – The Falmouth Christmas parade comprising local schools and led by Kernow Pipes and Drums, leaves Events Square and walks through the main streets before congregating on The Moor.
• 6.15pm – Local school groups perform carols and festive songs from the Christmas stage on the Moor. This is a traditional part of Falmouth’s Lights Switch-on and really brings the community together.
• 7pm – The big switch-on for 2024 by Steve Winnan, accompanied by his family/friends!
• 7.05pm - 8pm – Following the switch-on, do stay around for a fantastic live performance on the stage by Rock Choir.
More information on Falmouth’s comprehensive Christmas events programme including the Falmouth Festive Weekend of December 7 and 8 with the Harmony Choir on December 24, can be found via www.falmouth.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here