A HUGE number of nominations were put forward to switch on this year’s Christmas lights in Ross-on-Wye.

Last week Ross Town Council revealed that seven-year-old, Oliver Slater, has been picked to light up the town this year.

Oliver received an overwhelming number of nominations from the local community, and was chosen by the Christmas Fayre sponsors, Rehau, Taylor Wimpey and Dawley’s.

Oliver, having undergone treatment for bone cancer at such a young age, showed his bravery throughout and his strength stood out to the sponsors.

After spending much of last year’s festive period in hospital, it is hoped that switching on the lights will provide an extra special festive season for him to enjoy this year.

One submission supported Oliver’s nomination in saying, “He has faced every challenge with incredible courage and a smile that never fades. His strength and resilience have touched the hearts of everyone around him, children, parents, teachers, and the wider community.

“Oliver’s journey reminds us all of the power of hope and the importance of coming together… He truly deserves this magical moment.”

Oliver’s mother Laura said: “We would like to say a very big thank you to everyone that voted for him. Ross has been brilliant in helping us through this year, and he is very much looking forward to having the best Christmas this year. Again, a big thank you to everyone that voted.”

Oliver will be joined by his father and sister, Shaun and Lily, for the switch-on at the annual Christmas Fayre on Sunday, November 30, in Ross town centre between 11am and 5pm, with the switch on taking place at 4.30pm.

Ross Town Council would like to thank the fayre sponsors, Rehau, Taylor Wimpey and Dawley’s, for continuing to support this event and the tradition that marks the start of the Christmas period for Ross.