THE festive season got under way in Ryedale at the weekend with Christmas light switch-ons and celebrations across the area.

On Thursday Malton’s lights were switched on, with Norton hosting its event the following evening.

Malton Town Council organised the display this year, with the switch-on taking place outside St Michael’s Church in the Market Place with Mayor Cllr Paul Andrews and town crier David Jackson.

Principal Organiser Denys Townsend said: “The evening went very well and everything went to plan. It was nice start to the festive season."

In Norton, the Christmas lights switch-on took place at the Derwent Arms in Church Street on Friday.

Mayor Cllr Ray King, said: "We had a good turn out and everyone really enjoyed the evening.

"Thanks goes to everyone who helped and to Darren and all the staff at the Derwent Arms.

The annual festive market was held in Kirkbymoorside on Saturday.

Rene Stuip, one of the organisers, said: "It was a great day, as visitors and stallholders alike have assured us.

"We had a variety of the different products for sale, ranging from local honey and bacon to wood-stemmed champagne glasses, felt products, cards and paintings and beautiful knitware, and so much more.

"The atmosphere was great, and all enjoyed very much the carols played by Kirkbymoorside Brass Band. It was a great day."

The switch-on in Pickering is on December 3 at 5pm, and at Thornton-le-Dale the same day at 6pm, and will include a visit from Father Christmas.