In pictures: Market Drayton Festival of Lights

This year the town council spent more than £5,000 on upgrading the lights, fixtures and fittings.

Residents got to see the new and improved display as darkness fell on Saturday night, following a day of entertainment, events and festive fun at the Festival of Lights.

Geoff Russell, Market Drayton town crier, said: “It’s absolutely brilliant and there’s been lots of people coming and going all day long.

“We’ve had fire eaters, bands, singers, dancers, everything going on. It’s been really busy.

“And the lights look wonderful - a big improvement on last year.”

Kate Harvey, assistant clerk to Market Drayton Town Council, said the new lights display was a community effort.

Palethorpes and AJB Contracting contributed and Leek United Building Society offered to give the council money towards the new lights in Queen Street after they were vandalised last year.

Stalls selling local produce, presents and homemade goods lined Cheshire Street leading up to two giant Christmas trees sponsored by Hales Sawmills and Muller.

Children had the opportunity to have their picture taken with Father Christmas, who was in his sleigh.

Mr Russell also urged the town to support an evening of carol singing on Christmas Eve.

“It’s a lovely evening from 6pm in the Buttercross and I hope everyone will come along. There’s a real community spirit in the town during Christmas so it’ll be a great event.”