A RECORD number of Christmas revellers came to Corsham on Friday to celebrate the switching on of the lights.

Over 2,000 people crammed into the centre of town to watch Bunny Niel, the winner of the Christmas card competition, press the button to light up the streets.

Ahead of the big day, Father Christmas collected people's Christmas wishes ahead of the big day from the special wishing tree which was on the High Street for people to hang their hopes and dreams, while raising money for charity.

On the lead up to the switch on, people could browse the German market-style stalls provided by community businesses.

An array of music, entertainment, and a host of food and drink was on offer, including a fake snow machine that children and adults alike enjoyed running through.

Father Christmas also made an appearance, handing out sweets to children around the stage, with help from his little elves.

Corsham Town Council's Chairman, Cllr Ruth Hopkinson was delighted with the turn out this year.

"It was absolutely fantastic and a huge turn out. We think it was bigger this year than it has been in previous years.

"All of the feedback from the residents, the stall holders and the shops has been absolutely excellent.

"Of course, one of the reasons we hold it isn't just to celebrate Christmas and to give back to the residents, but also for independent traders, we get people into the town.

"The highlight for me is always the count down and people counting down, seeing the lights go on and the cheer that goes up.

"I think it does so well because it has a community feel throughout the whole thing. It is an extremely well organised event.

"It is the community aspect of it. It is about the community and it is about the people, because so many people turn up."