DROITWICH’S annual Christmas lights switch-on, set to take place in the town on Saturday, November 25, will see a poignant tribute paid to much-loved Frank Holliday.
Known as the ‘father of Droitwich Spa Boys and Girls Football Club’, Frank’s work for the club spanned 40 years before he passed away in June this year, aged 73.
Frank was nominated for the 2013 West Midlands Sports Unsung Hero accolade and winner of Worcestershire’s equivalent award.
He retired from the club two years ago after being diagnosed with cancer but returned to see his grandson Finley Thomas Holliday play for the team.
And next Saturday Finley, accompanied by Town Crier Edgar Harwood and Droitwich Mayor Coun Shaun Best, will switch on the town’s Christmas lights in memory of Frank and his tireless work.
Further tributes to Frank were also confirmed at the meeting of the town council on Monday and will include a ‘Frank Holliday Memorial Trophy’ for Droitwich Spa FC Boys and Girls which will decide who contests it.
Two engraved plaques will also be put up at the King Georges Playing Field Pavilion and the Cricket Pavilion at St Peters.
Mayor Coun Shaun Best said plans were ongoing and the exact dates for the presentation of the trophy and plaques were yet to be decided.
“We spent a lot of time with Frank’s family deciding on the memorial trophy and other ways to honour his work.
“The family are happy with our choices and will be present when the events take place.”
Prior to the big switch-on, there will be plenty of festive fun from 4pm outside St Richards House including a performance from the ‘Sing & Tonic’ choir followed by the traditional countdown at 4.30pm when the town will be illuminated.
All car parking in Wychavon District Council’s pay and display car parks will be free of charge from 2pm onwards.
There will also be the Worcestershire Farmers’ Market together with other seasonal stalls in Victoria Square.
The children’s Fun Fair will be in town all day near Victoria Square and St Richard’s House where the Droitwich Lions Club’s popular Santa’s Grotto will run from 10am until the evening.
Other attractions include children’s nursery activities and ‘free’ face-painting.
‘Cards for Good Causes’ takes place in the Tourist Information Centre following last year’s inaugural charity card display and sale.
There will be a tabletop Craft Fayre at Droitwich Community Hall from 10am to 6pm offering plenty of for seasonal gifts.
The Salvation Army brass band will perform in the town centre during the afternoon including outside St Andrews Church from 2pm to 3pm and in Victoria Square from 3.15pm onwards.
A Christmas Market will officially open in Victoria Square at midday on December 16 and run from then until December 23.
