GREAT Malvern's Christmas tree went up on Belle Vue Island on Monday, as the town makes its final preparations for the big lights switch-on on Saturday.

Contractors braved Monday's downpour to install the tree on Belle Vue island, where it was subsequently swathed in lights The tree has once again been provided free by Leigh Sinton Christmas trees with electrical contractor Andy Box, installing the lights.

Mayor Cynthia Palmer has thanked them for their their continuing support of Malvern’s Christmas Event and hopes the switch-on will be enjoyed by as many people as possible.

She said: "There is an amazing atmosphere in the town which builds up to the lights being switched on at 6pm."

Among the attractions is a food market on Abbey Road, an arts and crafts market in the Priory grounds and a local traders’ market in the library grounds.

Other attractions at the library will include a Victorian fairground ride, a bouncy castle, food and gift stalls, face-painting, children’s crafts and music.

Father Christmas will be giving out presents at his grotto and there will be a variety of festive entertainment and activities taking part throughout the town during the day.

The lantern parade will make its way up Church Street from 5.30pm ready for the switch-on by the stars of Malvern Theatres panto Sleeping Beauty, Amy Thompson from Milkshake and Chris Pizzey from the Basil Brush Show.

Live music in the Priory starts at 11am, and there will also be family stories throughout the day, free refreshments and children’s activities, and a carol service from 6.15pm.

BBC Hereford and Worcester will again be co-ordinating entertainment on Belle Vue Island from noon with performances from Malvern Rock Choir, solo singers, Malvern St James Junior Choir and Wilf's Carnival Band, to name a few.

Malvern Cube in Albert Road North and ARCOS at Avenue Road will also be running events throughout the day.