BAD weather forecasts did not deter the public from turning out in force for Malvern's Great Christmas Festival on Saturday.

Gloomy skies and rain squalls did not dampen the town's enthusiasm for the annual event that signals the start of the festive season in Malvern.

Church Street was closed off for the Great Christmas Festival, allowing shoppers to wander freely and create a free and easy carnival atmosphere.

And thousands packed into the town for the climax of the day's festivities, the switching-on of the Christmas lights by two of the stars of this year's Malvern Theatres pantomime.

Mark Moraghan as Captain Hook and Andrew Agnew as Smee delighted young fans as they took their place at the head of the procession which made its way form the theatre to Belle Vue Island for the switch-on.

The procession also included youngsters from the town's primary school bearing their traditional lanterns, Malvern mayor Julian I'Anson and other dignitaries, dancers and a steel band, with crowds lining both sides of Church Street to see them pass.

Cllr I'Anson said: "We were a bit apprehensive at first, because of the poor weather forecast. But people turned out just the same, and luckily the rain died away before the procession itself.

"The two actors from the pantomime were great, interacting with the children all the way up Church Street, and in the end the day went really well."

There was plenty to see and do for all the family thought the day. A food market in Abbey Road temped shoppers with sweet and savoury taste treats, and there was plenty of choice for discerning browsers at the arts market in the Priory churchyard.

The Priory itself was also open to visitors, with music from the Witness Choir, bell-ringing, family stories, and a carol service right after the lights were switched on.

Malvern Library was another centre of action, with father Christmas holding court in his grotto, and attractions in the grounds including include a Victorian fairground ride, a bouncy castle, food and gift stalls, face-painting, and children’s crafts.

And a programme of music at Belle Vue Island included contributions from the Malvern St James Junior Choir, Malvern Rock Choir and a number of solo singers.

"We were thrilled with the turn-out, considering how bad the forecast had been. Once again, Malvern turned up trumps," said Cllr I'Anson.