Gallery: Christmas lights switch-on fun at Bradford on Avon

Mr Monie, who will be starring in Cinderella at the Royal Theatre in Bath, described himself as a “Holtonian” at the event.

He said: “I’m delighted to be turning the lights on because I was born in Bradford on Avon and I now live in Holt – you could say I know Bradford like the back of my hand.”

“I will hopefully go and have a look round some of the shops which are having late night shopping and I’ll be looking for a bargain because I won’t be able to once the panto starts.”

The switch-on, which happened in Westbury Gardens, also saw late night shopping until 8pm with the Lamb Yard being transformed into a haven for children with swing boats and other rides.

Santa’s Grotto made a comeback this year and set up camp in the Christmas card charity shop by the Pavilion cafe which is home to the Christmas tree which was the centre of attention for the town this past week.  

And it seems that residents were happy with the adjusted decorations.

Jon Clark along with his daughter Hannah, nine, said: “I think before it looked a mess but now it looks a little better.”

Others also joined in the festive fun like Claire Martin, of Belcombe Road, who said: “This is the first time we have come because my son in three and it hasn’t disappointed so far.”

Bradford’s own Courage Choir sang and singers, Genevieve Price from Winsley and Hannah Polan from Melksham, said they were happy with their performance and the crowd.

Miss Price said: “We have done a fair few events like this one and it is just nice that people show up and join in.”

Poster competition winners Liliana Burbidge, seven, and Oliver Boorer, four, also helped switch on the Christmas lights.