The streets of Old Town lit up in a blaze of glory as hundreds of revellers turned out to see the Christmas light switch-on last night.

Deputy mayor Stan Pajak had the honour of illuminating Swindon's oldest district following the traditional countdown by town crier Fred Ferris.

The crowd had already been treated to a performance from Robbo the Clown and Swindon band Locomotion, and once the lights were on, further entertainment was provided.

Father Christmas paraded through Wood Street in his sleigh handing out sweets and goodies to children, while fire jugglers and crazy waiters left the public gasping.

Coun Pajak said: "Old Town has got a real community feel to it. The decorations are wonderful, there's a fantastic range of shops and there was no hoo-ha about the lights, unlike other parts of Swindon.

"People of Old Town know how to show the spirit of Christmas."

Pollyann Tanner appeared on stage alongside the Tanwood dancers in preparation for her role as Dandini in the Wyvern Theatre's pantomime Cinderella.

She said: "Christmas for me is panto and panto is Christmas. Cinderella will drag me out of retirement and I'm really looking forward to it."

Mum Cathy Turner, 34, was there with children James, three, and Sarah, two.

She said: "The children can't wait to see Father Christmas."

Friends Stuart Steele, 11, and Alex Johnston, 10, from Old Town, said: "The fire jugglers were amazing and the lights are really cool."

Backers of the lights include the Evening Advertiser, whose sponsorship will cover the cost of powering them.