Christmas in Westbury is well underway after the lights were switched on at the town’s festive extravaganza on Saturday (December 2) night.

A little rain was not enough to dampen holiday spirits, and the star attraction, a huge mechanical moving snow lion from street theatre alchemists Creature Encounters, accompanied by his keeper was a huge hit with the adults as well as the children.

As hundreds assembled for the lights switch on the Mayor, Cllr Gordon King thanked the organisers and the public for their participation and the presented the awards for Mayors Christmas Card competition won this year by Martha Baldwin, and the Christmas shop window display won by the Woollery on Haynes Road.

Cllr King said: “The crowd were awesome, it was awe inspiring. As we counted down to the switch on the atmosphere was electric and Santa did not disappoint.

“Martha, winner of the Christmas card competition, pushed the button and all of Westbury came alive with light. I hope that everyone will assemble again next year and we will do it all again.”

The entertainment lived up to the high expectations of the public, with The Rock Choirs of West Wiltshire & Frome getting everyone in the Christmas spirit with their opening performance.

As expected, Father Christmas was a very busy man with a constant stream of children entering in his Grotto.

Speed painter Dave Sharp rose to the challenge and painted 2 fantastic pictures, of former Bristol City footballer, and Warminster teacher John Atyeo and pop legend David Bowie.

The eight foot tall naughty Christmas tree was also a great favourite with passing children who stopped to add a bauble or two.