Swimming star Stephanie Millward added some silver sparkle to the switch-on of Corsham's Christmas lights on Friday evening.

The Paralympic hero, who won four silver medals and one bronze medal during this summer's Games, was greeted by hundreds of people in the town's High Street for the event.

Miss Millward was joined on stage, outside the Town Hall, by three schoolchildren, Anay Verna, Owen Cox and Emily Calladine, who won Corsham Town Council's Christmas tree decoration competition, to turn on the lights.

Former Corsham School pupil, Miss Millward, 31, said: "I'd never have imagined I would switch-on the Christmas lights let alone have the wonderful opportunity to do it twice. I'm really pleased to be here to spread a little Christmas cheer "This is a lovely end to a great year and I'd like to wish everybody a merry Christmas."

During the event, the Paralympian, who has multiple sclerosis, signed autographs and posed for pictures giving fans a chance to see her medals and Olympic Torch.

Corsham Town Council chairman Peter Anstey said: "I would like to thank Steph, the huge crowd, and the town council, in particularly Nicola Chruszcz, for making this a wonderful night.

"It's great to have Steph here as she's very well supported in Corsham and is a real hero and inspiration to our young people."

Before the switch-on, there were musical performances from The Corsham Windband, the Pound Sound choir and Corsham School pupils while visitors also enjoyed funfair rides in the High Street.

Of course, there was a visit from Father Christmas and his reindeer, while two giant snowmen also entertained the crowds - with one even sharing a waltz with town councillor Peter Davis.