Ruby lights up the town (From Wiltshire Times)

Ruby lights up the town

4:00pm Monday 10th December 2007 in Corsham By Katie Adams

HUNDREDS gathered in Corsham on Friday to watch the Christmas lights being switched on and Father Christmas making his way down the High Street in an open top car.

This year, nine-year-old Ruby Roberts, the winner of the town council's Christmas card competition turned the lights on with help from GWR presenters Jez and Roo.

Town clerk David Martin said: "We think there were twice as many people here this year than there were last year.

"There were crowds all the way from the town hall right down to Arnold House. There were definitely hundreds of people there to watch."

Among the attractions were Jake the Juggler, a fire juggler and a Christmas bazaar.

Mr Martin said all the activities were a big hit and people were queuing to get into the bazaar.

North Wiltshire District Council gave visitors free parking in their car parks during the event.

Mr Martin said all the car parks were full and shops even stayed open late.

He said: "I walked past some of the shops at around 7pm and they were still very busy."

Rain held off on the night as Ruby was joined on stage by the runners up of the Christmas card competition.

Kirsty Goodchild, administration officer at the town council said: "Ruby was really chuffed to be on stage and to meet Jez and Roo. She did really well.

"The designs for the competition will be on display in the arts centre until December 20."

Other events on the night included interior design shop Perfect Rooms winning the best dressed window competition and a performance from Wiltshire singer Andy Park, AKA Mr Christmas.

Lots more photos in this week's Chippenham News.