THE FESTIVE season got off to a flying start in Stourport on Friday when the town's Christmas lights were switched on.

Crowds, carols and a candle-lit procession marked the occasion, with well-known radio DJ Mike George working the crowd into a frenzy before the big moment at 6.30pm.

"We had a wonderful response from the crowd, which gets bigger and bigger as the years go by," said Stourport's mayor Michael Grinnall. Mayor and Mayoress of Stourport, Mick Grinnall and Jackie Taylor join in the candle-lit procession.

Attractions included a band, circus performers from Stourport High School, a choir, Santa Claus and three kings from Lickhill Middle School. musicians from the Venture Scouts' band perform Christmas carols.

This year also saw a Harry Potter theme with the Hogwart's Express transporting some lucky passengers on the procession.

"There was a service and carols followed by a procession through the town, led by myself and the mayors of Kidderminster and Bewdley, ending up at the Christmas tree in Villeneuve-le-Roi gardens," added Mr Grinnall. Vi Higgs and Jo Styles sing along to the carols.

The town's lights have been added to again this year and the total cost of the £50,000 display has been met by sponsorship from businesses. Their contributions are marked by plaques.