"I am strong": Local hero to switch on Christmas in Kettering

Kettering's Christmas lights will be switched on by 3 year old Lilith Murdoch, who has shown bravery when getting treatment.

The local hero was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma, and has palliative care.

Lilith's mother Ivy-Rose is in awe of her daughter's strength:

"She has endured so much over the past two years, and even now, at the end of her life, she is still smiling, laughing and running around.
Lilith has been an inspiration to everyone she meets. She is a shining light of hope in a world that can sometimes feel so full of darkness. along with every other child on that ward, They are all truly amazing little warriors. Some people go their whole lives without meeting their hero. I gave birth to mine."

Lilith had loads of nominations for this honour, the Mayor of Kettering, Cllr Lauren Glanfield, choosing her to bring magic to Kettering.

"Her family are on a mission to make memories, and, as I believe that Christmas belongs to the children, I have chosen this amazingly brave little girl to bring in the festive cheer to our town.”

Before the local hero lets Kettering step into Christmas at 6:30pm, there is entertainment for the main stage and surrounding areas.

The main stage will see band No Angels, ISM music academy, the cast of Peter Pan and so much more.

There will also be free entertainment throughout Sheep Street, like the tea cups.

A quieter SEND area will be on Sheep Street to accommodate those who are neurodivergent, or may just need a break from the busy marketplace.

Warm up with a hot chocolate, among plenty of local festive stalls, while looking up at the new 30ft Christmas tree from Welford Christmas Tree Farm.

Lauren Glanfield, Mayor of Kettering, said:

“Now Halloween is over, Christmas is fast approaching! There’s a slight chill in the air and the buzz of excitement amongst children, many of whom will have already written their letters to Father Christmas.
But sometimes we need a reminder about what the Christmas season is truly all about: kindness, hope, community and coming together.
This past year has brought its own challenges and busy moments to us all, and our Christmas Lights Switch On is our chance to reflect and look out for one another – to share our successes of the year and our hopes for the future. 
None of this Christmas magic happens by itself, so I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been working behind the scenes: Kettering Town Council, community volunteers, local businesses, and performers. Together, they make our Christmas Lights Switch On and other wonderful, festive events possible.”

There will be road closures from 12pm until 9pm.