Plymouth Community Hero chosen to switch on this year’s Barbican Christmas Lights

13th November 2024

Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, organisers of the Barbican Christmas Lights Switch On, is delighted to announce that this year’s Community Hero has been chosen. Following a record year of nominations, Jo Connett has been awarded the prestigious title.

Jo, who was nominated by her granddaughter Jessica, manages the local soup run for St. Paul’s Church, in Efford, which serves over 100 vulnerable people in the community and those experiencing homelessness

Each Christmas, Jo puts together hampers (including a full Christmas lunch) for local families who need a little helping hand. Jo has also run her local Brownies group for over fifty years and welcomed hundreds of children to take their Brownie Promise.

Jo said:

“I’m delighted and very humbled to have been chosen as this year’s Community Hero. I love what I do, but this recognition also goes to the great team of around 30 people that all work together to support our community.”

Jon Walton and Kim Downer, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership:

“We are always humbled when we read the many nominations for the annual Community Hero Awards – there are a such lot of good people doing a lot of good things in our city for their local communities. Jo’s nomination stood out for the work she’s doing with the most vulnerable people in our city and ensuring they have a hot meal and shelter when they need it most.

We’re really looking forward to welcoming Jo on stage on Saturday and being our guest of honour to switch on the Barbican Christmas Lights.”

Jo will be joined on stage by Muddles (aka Andy Ford) who’s starring in pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, at Theatre Royal Plymouth from December onwards, and, of course, Santa for this year’s Barbican Christmas Lights Switch On.

From midday on Saturday 16 November, the Barbican will be buzzing with excitement as a variety of stage performances, interactive activities, and family-friendly entertainment unfold ahead of the Lights Switch On. Delight in festive storytelling, marvel at the walkabout acts, and catch the ever-popular Gables Dogs Show. Don’t forget to explore the market stalls, offering unique gifts and delicious seasonal treats.

Santa will arrive courtesy of support from his friends at the RNLI, disembarking at the Barbican Landing Stage at approximately 5pm.

The Barbican Christmas Lights Switch On is in association with Macpherson Motorcycles, with the stage sponsored by Cattewater Harbour Commissioners.

Find out more about the Barbican Christmas Lights Switch On.