Over 5,000 people enjoyed the Witney Christmas lights switch-on on Friday.

There were funfair rides, a steam engine and food stalls to enjoy while Santa was visited by many young people in his Grotto, run by Wood Green Interact which is sponsored by Witney Rotary.

On the main stage the audience enjoyed the Madley Brook Community Primary School choir followed by the Wood Green School Swing Band and then the assembled chorus of WOPA.

The two presidents of Interact Miranda and Cadence push the plunger (Image: DAVID MURPHY) The great switch-on was at 6pm by the two presidents of Interact – Miranda and Cadence – operating the plunger to light up Witney for Christmas.

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Vice Lord Lieutenant Lynda Atkins, MP Charlie Maynard, Mayor Owen Collins, Abbott CEO Sean Smith and Rotary President Simon Hamilton looked on while Rev Chris Dingwall-Jones blessed the lights and Town Crier Jean Dixon led the countdown.

The event which was arranged by Witney Rotary Club working with Witney Town Council.

Following engagement with the public, high street businesses and landlords the council has engaged a new contractor LITE.

The new displays feature a greater number of lights and aesthetically pleasing placements.

All the lights are on timers to improve energy efficiency and operate using the latest LED technology as well as being made from environmentally friendly materials.

As the lights are programmable which will allow for dynamic displays to celebrate a variety of events throughout the year - while avoiding the nesting season.

Leader of the council Ruth Smith said: "The lights bring cheer to residents and visitors throughout the season.

"This new design means the display can be configured a bit differently each year. It takes a range of feedback into account, such as requests for additional lights along the raised part of Market Square, which add sparkle to plainer spaces such as the start of Corn Street.

"It also extends to shopping areas that were previously overlooked."

The Town Council has also negotiated a generous charitable donation from the contractor.

Abbott Diabetes were a main sponsor of the switch-on and provided some of the helpers on the night. Chris Hayter Transport provided the stage.

This year local businesses generously contributed to the cost of some of the lights and decorations.

Estate agent Scott Fraser sponsored both the Buttercross Christmas tree and the light created by the winner of the ever-popular Children's Christmas Light Competition.

H & OB Builders of Witney sponsored the Christmas tree outside the Corn Exchange.