HUNDREDS gathered despite the cold weather to see Pershore's Christmas lights switched on.

A switch on event took place on Saturday afternoon, (November 26), which included Christmas carols and entertainment in St Andrews Gardens.

It was the first time the switch on event had been held in the gardens, after the popularity for the event grew in recent years.

Pershore residents treated themselves to mulled wine and mince pies while looking round and shopping on the Christmas stalls, and the arts and crafts market in the Town Hall.

Young people enjoyed the traditional fairground rides before the arrival of Father Christmas and his reindeer.

The lights were switched on by youngsters Milo Pokorin from Cherry Orchard First School and Hannah Webley from Holy Redeemer Primary School, who won a competition.

Ann Dobbins, Pershore town clerk, said: "We must have had around six to 700 come along, it was a really good event.

"Everybody has said how great the lights look this year.

"Christmas had now arrived in Pershore."

Pershore Town Council's budget for the lights is £15,500, including the cost of powering them. Wychavon District Council has also contributed £1,000 towards the cost of lights, which also helped pay for free parking for visitors to the event.