MALVERN braved the impact of Storm Bert to keep the festive spirit alive at the Christmas lights switch on. 

The heavy downpour and stormy conditions meant a scaled back event had to be organised at short notice.

However, youngsters were still able to visit Father Christmas at Santa's Grotto at Malvern Library. 

The library also held a mini market in the book and cup café, art and crafts workshops and a balloon modeller.

Families were also treated to story time with the Mayor of Malvern Cllr Marilyn Birks.

Over at the Coach House Theatre, there were circus workshops, a fete stall and a mini market. 

And the Christmas lights parade took place at 5.15pm, followed by the big switch on 15 minutes later. 

The lights will feature guest appearances from Mark James and Phillip Arran, who will be performing in this year's pantomime production of Sleeping Beauty at Malvern Theatres. 

The town clerk, Linda Blake, said: "Thank you to everyone that came to the Great Malvern Christmas lights switch on. 

"We were thrilled that we were able to run this event for the community and it was wonderful seeing all the Christmas lights around Malvern."