THE Christmas lights have been sparkling at Evesham retail and leisure park The Valley.

More than 1,000 people attended The Valley Christmas lights switch on, held on November 24, which included a packed evening of music, shopping and the launch of the popular winter skating rink.

Pupils from Vale of Evesham School took centre stage, with the help of Evesham Dogs Trust volunteers, leading a countdown before pressing the plunger to make the impressive lights go live.

The crowd were entertained by festive music, with local jazz singer Helen Pearson taking to the stage.

She sang various Christmas hits including Santa Claus is Coming to Town, which everyone joined in as Father Christmas and his sleigh arrived.

Andrew Robinson, head of care at the Vale of Evesham school, said: “Being part of the community is an important part of what we do at the school, and the boarders loved being able to turn the lights on.

“Thank you to everybody at The Valley who made us feel welcome.”

Phil Maclean, The Valley’s marketing manager, said: “We are so proud of the Vale of Evesham school, it was an obvious choice to invite them to perform the switch on, as they are all genuine stars.

“It was a magical evening, and we were delighted with the turnout.

“We had lots of positive feedback on the night from families.

“We have lots more happening over the festive period.”