THOUSANDS of residents braved the cold weather to see Stourport shine for the festive season.

The annual Christmas Lights switch-on and Three Kings Candle Lit Parade through Stourport town centre saw one of the biggest crowds in the event’s history when it was held on Friday (November 24).

BBC Hereford and Worcester’s Malcolm Boyden entertained the crowd and flicked the switch, alongside Mayor Vi Higgs, Father Christmas and the Stourport Carnival royal consort of Queen Antonia Alberone-Chamberlain, Princess Emily Edwards and Rosebud Roxie Jordan.

Stourport Scout and Guide Band lead the parade while the Three Kings were carried by pupils from St Bartholomew’s, Burlish Park and Astley Primary Schools.

A host of guests, volunteers and Stourport Rotary Club’s sleigh also took part in the parade, helping raise money for the Mayor’s charities through a street collection.

Street performers entertained the crowds while the ‘Stourport Light Brigade’ ensured the town was lit up – including the new Lock Monster in Villeneuve Gardens – while the parade took place.

The event culminated in a spectacular firework display.

Organiser Pete Roberts said: “It was a fantastic event and it was great to see people come out in their thousands to support it – it’s one of the biggest crowds we’ve ever had.

“I want to thank all the volunteers, businesses, schools, community groups, councillors and residents as well as the firefighters and police who worked so hard and took part in the event. It couldn’t happen without everyone coming together and supporting it as they do.”