Thousands of people headed to the Bailey Head in Oswestry on Thursday for the annual Christmas Lights switch-on.

Special guests, 'superheroes' and BBC Radio Shropshire's James Bond all joined Councillor John Price – Oswestry mayor – to turn the lights on in front of a cheering crowd.

They were entertained by singing pupils from schools in and around Oswestry, plus a dancing show before the lights switch-on by students from Derwen College.

Cllr Price admitted he was taken aback by the huge turnout and even found time to meet a reindeer...in a way.

"This little girl came up to me and asked me who I was," he said.

"I told her I was the mayor and then asked her who she was, she said 'a reindeer' and ran off.

"I love that. It's been brilliant tonight – I was stood to the side of the stage and was able to look back down Bailey Street and saw more and more people coming up the street.

"I take great pride in Oswestry and the people are, and should be, proud of themselves and their town."

James was the master of ceremonies yet again and admitted it is an annual joy to take part.

He added: "I'm delighted to overseeing ever it.

"It's a brilliant way to show off Oswestry and for me, it's the start of Christmas. Oswestry is a little town that throws big events and once more they've shown this."

The lights switch-on was accompanied by fireworks over the Guildhall before Oswestry band The Bartells entertained the crowds.