MORE than 1,000 people took to Westbury town centre on Saturday to watch the annual Christmas Lights switch on.

There was the smell of mulled wine and mince pies in the air on Market Place as onlookers listened to uplifting and festive tunes in the lead up to the push of the button.

The lights were turned on at 6.50pm by Oscar Bailey, a youngster who won the mayor's Christmas card competition with his creative design.

The Rosa Gray Band, from Bristol, warmed up the crowd as they played a mixture of funk and jazz to keep everyone's spirits high on the briskly cold night.

After that, the Frome Street Bandits weaved through the packed out audience as they played their folk tunes with a lot of enthusiasm.

Many food stalls lined the streets of Westbury, from hog roasts to street food and doughnuts.

Sean Demaine, of Demaine Artisan, who was serving asian street food with Steve Turner said: "Admittedly it started off quiet but then it suddenly got really busy.

"It's been really good fun to be a part of."

Before the switch on, town crier John Hadfield took to the stage to address the crowd. He announced the winner of the town's Christmas window competition was discount store Miles Apart, on the High Street.

Santa Claus was also in attendance, with his group of elves, as he wished the crowd a merry Christmas.

Rev Caroline Husband also gave a rousing speech about hope over this Christmas period.

There was also a carnival atmosphere throughout the streets of Westbury as fairground rides were in place to keep the children and adults alike entertained.