Corsham High Street twinkled and shone as the town turned out in force to see its Christmas lights switched on.

A festive market took over the town centre, with stalls decked out with gifts and treats, and fairground rides and attractions providing entertainment.

Many of the town’s shops got into the spirit, opening late and providing a variety of impressive window displays.

Carole Johnson, a volunteer at the town’s tourist information centre, which stayed open ahead of the switch-on, said: “It’s great to see so many people here, we’ve had lots come in for mulled wine and biscuits.”

Outside the Town Hall a variety of local entertainment was provided on the makeshift stage, including performances by Dance Infusion, the Corsham Windband, and carols from Gita’s Choir, which is based in the Rudloe Community Centre.

Council chairman Ruth Hopkinson then took to the stage, and announced the Dorothy House store as winner of the Christine Stapleton Memorial Cup for the best dressed Christmas window competition.

Cllr Hopkinson then introduced the three young winners of the town’s Christmas card competition, including overall winner Lewis Rooke, who pressed the button to bathe the High Street in light.

Speaking afterwards Clr Hopkinson said: “We are really proud of the work the town council staff have done. I think it gets better year on year.

“The number of stalls is encouraging, the turnout is encouraging, and the entertainment and atmosphere just gets better each year.

“We are really grateful to all the stallholders and street entertainers who came out for the fair.

“This is all done for the community - that’s what keeps the town going.”

Hundreds of people lined the High Street for the switch-on, including Emma Plested and her one-year-old son Jacob.

She said: “I’m new to the town, I’ve only lived in Katherine Park for a year, so this is my first time here, and it’s all really lovely.

“Jacob’s having a great time, he’s really enjoying the lights, and seeing Father Christmas.”