Thousands brave weather for Market Drayton lights switch-on
[gallery] A wintery afternoon failed to dampen spirits as thousands of people turned out to watch the switch-on of Market Drayton's Christmas lights.
The town's junior town crier Joseph Hunt took centre stage as he helped town mayor Councillor Steve Glover and town crier Geoff Russell to turn on the illuminations on Saturday.
Guest of honour was Father Christmas who joined the crowds as he met youngsters.
Before the main event, visitors and residents enjoyed browsing the stalls of a Christmas market in the centre of the town, with more than 40 traders selling gifts and local produce. Children's entertainment and live music were also on the bill, and the youth theatre put on a show for passers-by.
The market included stands from local shops including sweet stalls, home-made honey and candles, cards and hand made baubles, wreaths, preserves, jewellery, leather and glass, as well as festive food and drink.
Members of the Beacon-based Tonks Theatre Workshops group toured the streets singing carols to get people into the festive spirit. The event is staged every year by Market Drayton Town Council.
Councillor Lee Ridgway said: "I think we had an excellent turnout, despite the weather everybody had a good day.
"There was plenty going on for people, everybody was in a good mood.
"I would say there was a couple of thousand people there. It was comparable to last year.
"The stalls looked busy. Traders I spoke to said it was well worth their while being there."
