CROWDS turned out in force for the Bromyard Christmas lights switch-on, with organisers reckoning on a record attendance this year.

The event on Saturday marked the 50th anniversary of the town's Christmas celebrations and as always was made possible by the Light Brigade, a team of volunteers from Bromyard and District Chamber of Commerce.

Not only does the Light Brigade install the lights throughout the town centre, erecting them in the six Sundays leading up to the event, but the team is responsible for designing, making and maintaining the displays.

David Grant of the chamber said: "This makes Bromyard pretty unique among towns in that we're not using off-the-shelf lighting, but actually designing them ourselves."

The lights were switched on by Roger Wilkins of the chamber following a day of fun and entertainment.

Father Christmas arrived in style and, once ensconced in his grotto, was visited by a record 2320 children.

Entertainment was provided by the bell ringers of St Peter's Church, who pealed in the festive season, Bromyard Wind Band and Bromyard Choral Society.

And the town's traders, cafes and pubs kept the crowds well fed and watered with seasonal taste treats including milled wine and mince pies, barbecue and pig roast and much more, many of them showcasing local produce.

The Midlands Air Ambulance held its own fund-raiser at the Inn at Bromyard, and the Friends of St Michael's Hospice hosted a Christmas craft fair in Falcon Mews.

The Chapel in Sherford Street and the the Family History Centre also hosted their own events including an arts event and pop-up cafe, and much more.

The Christmas tree was this year sponsored by the Malvern View Holiday Park.