Switch-on star announced for Ross-on-Wye’s 2025 Christmas Fayre
31 October 2025
Following a huge number of nominations, Ross-on-Wye Town Council is delighted to announce that 7-year-old, Oliver Slater, has been picked to light up the town this Christmas.
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. Having undergone treatment for bone cancer at such a young age, his bravery and strength stood out to the sponsors. After spending the 2024 festive period in hospital, it is hoped that being picked to switch on the town’s Christmas lights will provide an extra special festive season for him to enjoy this year.
One submission supported their 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.”
Laura Slater, Oliver’s mother, said: “We would like to say a very big thank you to everyone that voted for him. Ross-on-Wye has been brilliant in helping us through this year, and Oliver is very much looking forward to having the best Christmas this year to make up for the last one. 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 30th November, in Ross town centre from 11am – 5pm, with the switch on taking place at 4.30pm.
Ross-on-Wye 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.
For more information about the Christmas Fayre, visit the Council’s dedicated Facebook page – www.facebook.com/rossonwyechristmasfayre/ – or website – www.rosstc-herefordshire.gov.uk
