THOUSANDS are set to attend a town's Christmas lights switch-on and Christmas fayre as part of the festive celebration.

Pershore's Christmas lights will be lit up on Friday (November 29) bringing festive cheer to the town.

At the same time, a Georgian Christmas Fayre will also be taking place in the town centre and will continue on Saturday. 

The events will have more than 65 stalls along with food and drink on offer as well as a Victorian fun fair. 

Organisers say the event is completely self-funded and are keen to learn lessons from last year.

Julie Hemming, deputy mayor at Pershore Town Council, said: "It's going to be so big this year that we have had to block off another street. 

"We will have at least 65 market stalls and nine food and drink vendors, which is double last year. 

"Santa will be attending and we will also have a Victorian fun fair. 

"Last year was very well received although some people did point out that we had two Santas.

"It's always amazing to see everyone's reaction when the Christmas tree is lit up and the money raised will go towards a local charity."

On Friday (November 29) a lantern procession will proceed from Pershore Abbey at 5.30pm and go along Church Street to High Street and finish at the giant Christmas tree at Broad Street. 

The procession will be led by Santa Claus, Pershore Abbey Choir, the mayor, the town crier and representatives of the youth council. 

Carols will then be sung before the town's Christmas lights are turned on at 6pm.

The events are free to attend and many of the local businesses on the High Street will extend their opening hours to accommodate. 

Last year the event had more than 5,000 people attend and, this year, organisers Pershore Town Council say even more people could visit depending on the weather.