Miriam Margolyes, Elf Lyons, a flying goat and heroic fireman dazzle Clapham at Christmas lights switch on
By Isabel Millett
6th Dec 2021 | Local News
BAFTA-winning actor and local resident Miriam Margolyes entertained Clapham with her characteristic wit on Friday as she took to the stage to switch on the town's Christmas lights.
Hundreds of local people turned out in woolly hats and high spirits for the festive evening hosted by award-winning comedian Elf Lyons. Sat am
Ahead of performances by choirs from St Mary's Primary School and Heathbrook Primary School, the legendary star of stage and screen was asked questions about her acting career by children in the crowd.
"I liked it," Miriam said of being in the Harry Potter films, drawing laughter with a dryly added, "because I made lots of money."
Asked when she started acting, the Clapham resident said: "I started acting when I came out of the womb as a baby. But I first made money from it, professionally, when I was 22.
"Now I'm 80. Think how much money I've made."
Seated among the leafless trees in The Polygon flowerbed, Miriam swayed along to recitals of festive songs including Winter Song and Rocking Around The Christmas Tree performed by children in choirs at St Mary's and Heathbrook Primary Schools, before leading the crowd in a countdown for Billy, the flying goat, to illuminate the Christmas tree.
A theatrical twist that saw Billy caught in a tree quickly revealed the reason behind the Fire Brigade's presence at the festive event.
The ensuing moment a flying goat was rescued and placed atop a Christmas tree by a fireman was undoubtedly, said Elf, "everyone's fantasy."
Amid performances by singer-songwriters Amy Weir and Charlotte Campbell, Elf drew the evening to a gradual close, paying particular thanks to Tim Birksen at Birksen for decorating the Christmas tree and – to much whooping – Infernos for lending its equipment.
Let Clapham's countdown to Christmas continue!
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