A NEW events manager for Skipton has been appointed and is already busy looking ahead to Christmas.

Hannah Corrigan, previously in charge of events at Broughton Hall, has joined Skipton Town Council where she replaces the former events and tourism manager Kerry Wheelwright, who left earlier this year.

Skipton born Hannah has more than six years experience in hospitality and event planning, including the launch of a new car, the endurance race, Tough Mudder, and more than 50 weddings.

A resident of the town, she says she is passionate about its success and takes great pride in her home, its market and its events.

She is already meeting with organisers of the Great Skipton Santa Fun Run, the Rotary Club of Skipton Craven, and is planning the return of the grand switching on of the Christmas lights, in normal years attended by thousands of people.

Louise Close, chief officer of Skipton Town Council, said: “I am delighted to have Hannah join the team. We still have a lot of work to do but with the town opening back up it is time for us to start planning, and with Hannah’s skills of organising and planning, we are hoping to put on a great event this Christmas.”

The turning on of the Christmas lights ceremony, which was cancelled last year along with the fun run because of the coronavirus pandemic, will take place this year on November 28, after the run, which in normal years sees almost 2,000 people all in Santa suits run or walk the 5k route.

There will be music and performances throughout the afternoon and guest of honour will be nine year old Luke Mortimer, who aged seven had both his legs at the knee and both arms at the elbow amputated after contracting meningococcal meningitis.

Mrs Close said the aim was to put on a day to remember after all the disappointments of the last year.

“What a dreadful time this past year has been, last Christmas was a non-event for many people so this year we really want to put the best day on for Skipton’s residents and visitors.

“We are looking for some traditional Christmas market traders and hope to have a theme running through the day to give everybody the warmth of Christmas.

“Luke will arrive with Santa and press the all-important switch for the lights to be turned on. Luke’s courage and attitude throughout his traumatic ordeal is a lesson for us all. Skipton is so proud of Luke and cannot wait for him and his family to enjoy their day with us.”