THE countdown to Christmas has officially begun in Wyre Forest, after Kidderminster town centre was lined with people for the annual lights switch on.

Hundreds gathered outside the town hall on Saturday afternoon (November 14) to see the big button pushed following a day of entertainment.

BBC Hereford and Worcester’s roadshow kept the crowds going in the town square, as well as performances from the Lady and the Sax, and singers Sadie Owen and Gina.

Father Christmas also made a special appearance to spread the spirit of Christmas.

Excitement peaked at 4.45pm, when competition winners Henry Cole, nine, and Keira Hope, 11, stepped up alongside the Mayor of Kidderminster, Councillor Rose Bishop, and Father Christmas to push the button and light up the town.

The new specially designed chandelier displays and tall sparkling lighting ‘cones’ will be setting the scene for a sparkling Christmas in Vicar Street, High Street, Worcester Street, Marlborough Street, Oxford Street and Bridge Street.

Surrounding towns Stourport and Bewdley will also be switched on in the coming weeks, with Stourport set to be lit up on Friday (November 20), during the annual Three Kings Parade, while Bewdley will celebrate its Christmas Lights Festival on Saturday, November 28.

There is free parking in all council car parks after 4pm until Sunday, January 10, inclusive. The free evening parking offer is in addition to the existing free weekly parking offers.

For more Christmas information, visit the festive webpage at wyreforestdc.gov.uk/festive or call 01562 732975.