MISERABLE weather failed to spoil the party as hundreds of people packed the streets of Warminster to watch the Christmas lights switch-on.

In one of the biggest festive displays the town has ever seen, more than 130 Christmas trees were illuminated.

Warminster Community Radio broadcast live from Three Horseshoes Walk and Marco the clown were on hand to entertain the hordes of children who braved the chilly autumn weather.

Father Christmas paraded the streets, parking his sleigh in the central car park after the official ceremony to turn on the lights was completed.

Warminster mayor Ultan Ryan turned on the lights at just after 6pm, with the help of his wife Elizabeth. Cllr Ryan said he was delighted at the high turnout, which was one of the best for years.

He said: "It has been an absolute thrill, especially as it has been such hard work to get these lights the way they are. It makes the whole town look brighter.

"These are the most decorations we have ever had. It seems the children are absolutely delighted to be here too."

Town crier Phil Seddon opened the proceedings, introducing the mayor and welcoming the crowds to the start of the Christmas festivities.

He said: "It all went off very well. It is so nice that there are so many kids here. It is just such a shame the weather was so miserable."

Town clerk Alan Richardson explained how more decorations were put up this year, making the town look more decorative.

He said: "More trees and decorations were available overall this year. The trees are now on new stands which make them look more prominent."

Warminster Brass Band played Christmas carols in Three Horseshoes Walk as the crowds wandered about the town after the official ceremony. Some of the traders stayed open late to catch the increase in trade.

Organiser Sheila Toomey said: "It is a very simple ceremony this year but it is enough. If you have too many conflicting things, it can ruin it."