Farnham Town Council’s Christmas lights switch-on was full of surprises this year, with the biggest surprise of all reserved for Louisa Remnant-Shreeve from Farnham.

In a carefully orchestrated, top secret plan, Louisa was duped by her boyfriend Jay Hayes into believing they had won a competition to switch on the lights.

Upon being invited up on stage by compère Paul Evers, Jay dropped down on one knee and proposed to Louisa who said ‘yes’ before a delighted crowd of around 2,000 people.  

Councillor Alan Earwaker, the mayor of Farnham, witnessed the proposal and said: “Jay first met his now fiancée eight years ago at the Christmas lights switch-on. 

“When he approached us six months ago with the idea of popping the question at this year’s event, we were thrilled to assist.

“It was very romantic and was loved by the crowd, who gave a loud gasp followed by a big cheer. It’s a moment that will be remembered and treasured by many.” 

As well as the proposal of marriage, there were many more magical moments at the Christmas lights switch-on. 

Parents, carers and family members watched on proudly as children from local schools and theatre groups performed live on stage.

Over the course of the afternoon more than 500 children entertained the crowd in some 17 performances.  

Thanks to sponsorship from Farnham Veterinary Hospital, which is the principal sponsor of Christmas in Farnham, and the Christmas lights sponsors Abbeyfield Wey Valley Society and Shaw Gibbs accountants and business advisers, Farnham Town Council was able to book a Take That tribute band to ensure the Christmas party continued long after the lights had been switched on.  

The Christmas lights switch-on is the first of several events in Farnham’s countdown to Christmas.

The next major event will be the town centre Christmas market on Sunday, December 10.