FESTIVE Stourport residents turned out in their thousands to enjoy the town’s spectacular annual Three Kings Parade and Christmas lights switch on.

The town centre came to a standstill last night (Friday, November 25) as school children, marching bands and street performers proudly marched through the streets to entertain the crowds.

Kidderminster’s Paralympic golden girl Claire Cashmore was guest of honour and flicked the switch to turn the lights on alongside the Mayor of Stourport Ken Henderson, Father Christmas and Carnival Queen Jodie Davies and her consort Princess Hannah Hawkins-Long and Rosebud Chloe Guise.

Kidderminster Shuttle:

Prior to the switch-on Rev Mark Turner, rector at St Bartholomew’s Church, led people in a prayer and singing of carols ‘Away In A Manger’ and ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’.

This year’s parade was the biggest yet and the schools who took part were St Bartholomew’s Primary, whose pupils will be carried the three kings, Stourport High’s ukulele band and school choir, Astley School carrying a giant star and – for the first time – Burlish Park Primary who played an array of instruments.

Stourport Scout and Guide Band, who have been part of the parade for more than 20 years, also performed at the event.

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The event culminated in an impressive firework display shortly after 7pm.

Claire, who won Paralympic gold in the women’s 4x100 competition while also bringing home a silver in the women’s 100m breaststroke at the Rio 2016 games, said: “It is a real honour to be asked to switch on Stourport’s Christmas lights and get everyone into the festive spirit.

“I did not realise just how big this event is. Considering it was freezing out there, it was really impressive to see so many people out in the streets to join in and have fun.

“It was a lovely thing for me to do. It’s the first time I’ve ever been asked to turn on a town’s Christmas lights so it’s really special for me and I am grateful for everyone’s support.”

Kidderminster Shuttle:

Mayor Ken Henderson added: “I think the event was absolutely wonderful - the biggest I’ve ever seen - and we are grateful to all those who worked so hard to make it happen.

"It was a joy having Claire as our guest of honour and I am so proud to see how many people came out.

“It was a cold night but people want to come to Stourport and celebrate with us.”

Kidderminster Shuttle:

*ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF COLIN HILL