THE magic of Christmas will arrive in Gorleston this year - with the help of TeamGY.

Youngsters were left disappointed in 2011 when there was no Christmas light switch- on celebration, but the newly-formed Gorleston Traders Association (GTA) is bringing it back.

And the group is calling on the Mercury’s TeamGY - people in the borough who are using their time and skills to help others - to help make this year’s extravaganza the best ever.

Kevin Huggins, of Gorleston Traders Association (GTA), said: “It’s a people’s event and we’re looking for as many volunteers as possible to make sure Gorleston is put on the map.”

He added: “It’s an opportunity for people to join in and make it happen.”

The grand switch-on will be on Sunday, November 25 next to the Feathers pub - where there will be a glittering, glorious Christmas tree.

Hot chestnuts, singers and rides for children are planned to keep families entertained, with fun from 1pm to 6pm and the switch-on itself at 4.30pm.

And GTA has revealed its wish list of volunteers, for Team GY to help with to make the switch-on one to remember:

- volunteers needed to man barriers when High Street is closed to vehicles

- shops needed to offer an electricity supply to power children’s rides

- collectors needed to hold charity collection buckets

- local bands, choirs and other entertainers needed to put on shows

- and finally, huge crowds needed to show their support at the switch-on!

GTA was formed two months ago to give Gorleston High Street a clear voice, with Victor Ling of Barkers Photographic as its chairman and a six-strong committee.

Mr Huggins, director of Fusion Hair Consultants, has organised previous switch-on events but was on holiday in the run-up to the event last year.

Nobody else picked up the baton, so it did not go ahead.

“We want to have GTA so we have people representing the high street so events like this don’t get jeopardised when people are away,” explained Mr Huggins.

“There was a lot of disappointment last year and it’s always been difficult to get everybody on board.

“We’re asking for the support of all the traders to show what Gorleston High Street has to offer.”

He added that the Christmas switch-on is mainly to delight children, but it would also a glowing endorsement for Gorleston’s shops and encourage people to shop locally.

Traders are invited to a meeting at Fusion on Monday at 6pm to discuss ideas.

To volunteer your help for any of the roles listed above, email kevin.fusion@btconnect.com or victor@barkersphotographic.co.uk

A new website is also set to be launched for GTA - see www.gorleston.biz