PICKERING’S seasonal spirit has arrived as the town’s Christmas lights have been switched on ready for the festive season.

The big switch-on took place on Saturday evening, with crowds turning out to see the decorations and enjoy entertainment in the town centre.

The Pickering Christmas Lights Committee – made up of local businesses and volunteers – organised the event.

Committee member Matthew Wilkinson said: “We had a fantastic evening with Morris dancers, jugglers, street performers and singers from the junior school.

“We had an exceptional crowd. Numbers are a bit hard to judge, but we had has many if not more than last year.”

The committee sold mulled wine and pork sandwiches to keep people warm, and all proceeds will go towards next year’s displays.

Mr Wilkinson added: “I want to thank all the committee members, and the generous people of Pickering who donated money to make the lights possible.”