THERE was a feast of festive fun in Malvern over the weekend as Christmas well and truly came to town.

The Great Malvern Christmas Festival took place on Saturday, and included the traditional lantern parade and Christmas light switch-on.

Starting from 10am, there were street performances in and around the town centre including the Appleyard Dancers, Old Meg Morris, Drumlove, Rock Choir and Second Line Jazz Band to name but a few.

The main man himself, Father Christmas, was also there in his grotto in Great Malvern Library taking present requests from all the good boys and girls.

The lantern parade then began at 5.40pm with those taking part making their way up to Belle Vue Island for the big light switch-on at 6pm.

This year the stars of Malvern Theatres pantomime Cinderella, which this year features This Morning’s Alison Hammond and children’s TV favourite Gemma Naylor, did the honours.

Shortly after there were carols from Malvern Chase Brass Band with a further carol concert taking place within Priory Church to get every in festive spirit.

Cllr Chris O’Donnell, chairman of Malvern Hills District Council, which jointly organises the event with the town council, said: “The Great Malvern Christmas Festival has grown in popularity in recent years and it’s always wonderful to see the community come together to celebrate the start of the festive season.”