AN effort is being made to up the scale of holiday events in Bewdley, with the switch-on of the Christmas lights top of the agenda.

The Chamber of Trade wants to close off a section of Load Street to host a festive market, a tradition popular throughout Britain in the run-up to Christmas.

Spokesman Colin Billingham said: "The idea is to close Load Street from the entrance of the short stay car park to the top of St Anne's Church, basically creating an island around the church for the market.

"There would be a pig roast, vintage steam engines and entertainment for everyone."

The idea has the backing of Bewdley Police and the town council and, if the road closure is given the thumbs up by the Highways Partnership, it will take place on December 20, for an estimated six hours.

Mr Billingham added celebrations such as May Day and Bewdley Carnival could also benefit from similar plans.

He said: "This could be the start of a festival which will grow every year."