Ref. 28136-9Community spirit came alive in Wootton Bassett when the Christmas lights were switched on to the sound of carols.

The annual Dickensian Even-ing has been running for nine years and residents were thrilled with the turnout.

Caroline Brown, 37, from Wootton Bassett, said: "It has been really good and got me in the festive mood."

She came with her husband, Steve, and their three children, Luke, eight, Jordan, six, and Amelia, four.

Luke said: "I sang in the choir and really enjoyed it. I cannot wait for Christmas now."

Hot chestnuts, a hog roast and steam engine transported the town back to bygone days.

North Wiltshire MP James Gray attended and entered the festive spirit by singing carols.

He said: "This is a brilliant example of community spirit at its best.

"Local people, traders and charities have all united to celebrate Christmas. It is great."

Mayor Marion Sweet switched on the lights, backed by festive music courtesy of Wootton Bassett Brass Band and the Choral Society.

She said: "This is one of the most excellent evenings in Wootton Bassett for many years and bears testimony to the tremendous community spirit we have here." Anyone who missed out on the yuletide fun can still catch up with Father Christmas in the town before Christmas.

He will visit the Happy Ever After toy shop, in the Borough Fields shopping centre, during the afternoons of December 13 and December 20.

Victoria Tagg