THOUSANDS of people packed into Great Malvern on Saturday to enjoy the town’s Christmas lights switch on.

People were packed in shoulder-to-shoulder as about 6,000 people of all ages turned out to enjoy the annual festive celebrations.

Throughout the day, visitors enjoyed markets, music, gift stalls and even a chance to catch a glimpse of a lifesized animatronic polar bear.

Panto dames Bobbie Kent and Anthony West, who play the Ugly Sisters in Cinderella at Malvern Theatres this year, switched on the town’s lights following a spectacular grand lantern parade.

Anna Brook, of Great Malvern Association of Traders, said the parade was the best they had ever had.

“The lantern parade was the biggest we’ve ever had,”

she said. “All the children from local schools had made lanterns and paraded up Church Street.

“The whole event went off with great success. I think it was probably the biggest turnout we’ve had.”

Tomorrow (Saturday) it is Barnards Green’s turn to celebrate the arrival of the festive season. Barnards Green Traders Association is throwing its annual Christmas Extravaganza as a thank you to shoppers for their support throughout the year.

Attractions include professional puppet shows at 11am, noon and 1.30pm, as well as a host of stalls, music and competitions and of course a chance to meet Father Christmas in his grotto.