THOUSANDS of people turned out for the annual Bewdley Christmas lights switch-on which took place on Saturday.
Prior to the big countdown and illumination, there was an afternoon of festive fun and live entertainment.
A main stage was set up on Load Street, by St Andrew’s Church, where local bands, choirs and singers performed.
Picture by Colin Hill. s
And Mayor of Bewdley, Coun Nicole Harper, was given the honour of pressing the button to light up the town for the festive season. She was joined by her Consort William Barry and her grandchildren as she pressed the plunger. BBC H&W’s Nina Das Gupta led the countdown.
Other attractions included the Bewdley Gingerbread House which doubled as Father Christmas’ Grotto.
Picture by Colin Hill. s
Attendees had the chance to meet the man in the big red suit, sit in his sleigh and pet the furry reindeer.
And each child under 10 who did that received a free small toy or sweet from the vintage vending machine.
Picture by Colin Hill. s
Festive entertainment included visits from elves and nutcrackers, a Vintage Carousel and a human snow globe for snowy selfies and family photos.
An extensive Christmas Market along Severn Side South, Severn Side North and Load Street boasted a multitude of stalls selling a variety of items, including unique Christmas gifts and festive food and drink.
Picture by Colin Hill. s
Bewdley Town Council said it was an incredible day and thanked both everyone who came along, as well as all the performers.
These included stilt-walking elves, cheeky nutcrackers on segways, live performances by Got to Sing, Rosie Edmundson, Crimson Flame, Kyle Finn, and hosting by DJ Cam.
Picture by Colin Hill. s
“The Christmas Grotto, gingerbread family, sleigh, snow globe and festive photo opportunities were a big hit with families all afternoon.”
Picture by Colin Hill. s
The town council also thanked Severn Valley Railway for its special trains, Midland Markets and Marshalls for the festive market, and everyone involved – including the brilliant town council staff and volunteers who made the event possible.
Picture by Colin Hill. s
“And of course, thank you to you, our wonderful community, for turning out in such huge numbers.
“Bewdley really knows how to start Christmas.”
