THOUSANDS braved the cold to watch Melksham’s show-stopping Christmas lights switch-on ceremony on Saturday.

Fireworks, artificial snow, and coloured streamers were all part of the festivities which saw locals come out in force to the Market Place for the event.

Carols and songs were sung by Bless Melksham and band The Decibelles who warmed up the crowd.

The town’s carnival royalty, Freya Paterson, Alexia Fletcher and Cameron Williams, also made their way on stage and were joined by town crier Peter Dauncey and Alan Byrne from Melksham Town Sound led the commentary which was broadcast live.

At 5pm the count-down began and this year three people had the honour of switching on the lights.

They were Ashley McDonald from John Stuart Funeral Directors, who were this year’s main sponsors, Mayor Terri Welch who has announced her retirement from the Tourist Information Centre and youngster Alex Patterson who chose the winning raffle ticket.

Cllr Welch said: “It’s brilliant, it’s great that the weather is dry although it’s cold. Everyone seems to be happy smiley.”

A Christmas fair with dozens of stalls from craft to tombola were all showcased in the packed Assembly Hall.

There was also a fire engine for youngsters to explore as well as a massive inflatable slide, mini train and a Santa’s wishing well.

Huge support was shown for Paul Weymouth and his small team of volunteers who spend months dedicating their free time to make the event spectacular every year.

Mr Weymouth, who is always looking for people who can lend a helping hand, said: “It was a lot of hard work and effort but it was well worth it.”

Due to the damage caused by a drunken brawl just days before the switch-on, not all the lights went on initially but this was soon fixed.

A special mention was also made before the switch-on to all the people who have died from the Christmas light switch-on team, including Roy Bowen who was influential in setting up the group.

Cllr Jon Hubbard added: “They do an astonishing job. I don’t think there’s another town that can touch us.”

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