THE countdown to Christmas continued in Wyre Forest last weekend, after the Stourport streets were lined with people for the annual Three Kings Parade and Christmas lights switch on.

The Three Kings Parade, which left the Stourport Civic Centre at 6pm on Friday evening (November 21), included Father Christmas, jugglers, buskers and new for this year, an open top bus ride.

Stourport Scouts and Girl Guide Band led the parade alongside children from St Bartholomew’s C of E Primary School, who carried the three 8ft model kings through the streets.

Astley C of E Primary School pupils carried a giant illuminated star, which they had made, during the parade.

Children taking part in the parade brought lanterns with them to keep the walk candle lit throughout.

Peter Roberts, organiser and carnival society chairman, said: “Well it went great, considering the terrible weather we had.

“I want to say a big thank you to everyone who turned out in the horrible weather. The parade was the biggest we have ever had.

“The whole event seems to get bigger and bigger every year. At 6pm you could not see a footpath for people.

“It was a really nice atmosphere for everyone there.”

Thousands of spectators gathered to watch the parade finish outside the Civic Hall where the final illuminations were lit and traditional carols were sung.

This year’s carnival queen Mary Newman, princess Halle Griffiths and rosebud Darcie Holmes switched on the town’s lights.

Buskers entertained people around the town from around 4pm, raising money for this year’s Mayoral charity, Macmillan Cancer Support Nurses.

Throughout the town, there was a craft fair between 5pm and 9pm at the newly refurbished Civic Hall, where seasonal refreshments were available to buy, and Raven Street car park hosted a fun fair with children’s rides.

Mr Roberts added: “We raised hundreds of pounds for this year’s Mayoral charity, which we are still counting now.

“I want to thank the Stourport Rotary Club and others that helped marshal the event.

“And a big thank you to the Emergency Services that helped during the event.”

Surrounding town, Bewdley will also be switching on this week, with their Christmas Lights Festival on Saturday, November 29.