THE first lantern parade in Trowbridge was a huge success with thousands of people taking part in the Christmas light switch-on. 


People marched with the town band from St James’s Church through to St Stephen's Park with hundred's of lanterns on display.


Town mayor Councillor David Cavill said: “This is the very first lantern festival done by Trowbridge town.


"We have to thank you all. Trowbridge is terrific. The lanterns are fantastic and everyone has done a great job.”
Cllr Cavill picked the winner from the entries. 


The Bletso family won with a big Octopus lantern. As their prize, their children Ashton and Alice got to turn on the Christmas lights. 
Mum Gemma Bletso said: “It was amazing we didn’t even know there was a competition till we won. 


"We saw an octopus in another display so we thought it seemed like a good idea. It took about five days to make.
"As a family we thought it would be easy to build but it wasn’t. “
Dad Trevor added: “It’s been awesome and having our kids turn the lights on was amazing as it's a once in a lifetime thing. 


"The fireworks were the best I’ve seen with such a great atmosphere. We come every year and each time it keeps getting better.”
Three cheers rang out to welcome the fireworks display. Frome group Rocktopus entertained the crowd. 


Town crier Trevor Heeks said: “It was absolutely brilliant. It was packed so it's lovely everyone joined in. The countdown was spot on and the kids loved it and the fireworks went wallop. The weather has been great so it couldn’t have been better.”
There was plenty of food and drink with Mexican, doughnuts and burgers. A market was held indoors.