THE crowds returned to Taunton centre for a spectacular Christmas lights switch on yesterday (Sunday, November 20).

The town was packed with thousands of people as the festive season got underway, with town Mayor Cllr Sue Lees flicking the switch to mark the start of the countdown to Christmas.

A day full of fun started with WinterFest, with free family entertainment, including meet and greets with Naughty Christmas Elves, a Snow Queen and Nutcracker on stilts, a free Santa's grotto, funfair rides, live music and a large Christmas market.

After setting Christmas in motion at the evening ceremony in front of the Market House, Cllr Lees said: "Taunton’s Christmas celebrations are one of my favourite events and I really enjoyed turning on the lights.

"Residents and visitors had plenty to enjoy. There was something for everyone to keep them entertained.

“It’s important that we continue to support the recovery of our local businesses and I'm glad to many residents and visitors attended."

Somerset West and Taunton Council is offering free parking for Christmas shoppers after 3pm in its Taunton car parks (excluding Kilkenny), and all-day parking at its car parks in Wellington and West Somerset on the Saturdays of December 10, 17 and 24.

The popular Carols Around the Bandstand will return to Vivary Park at 6.30pm on Monday, December 12, with details to be announced in due course.