CROWDS gathered in Bewdley town centre on Saturday for a Victorian Christmas market and live entertainment ahead of the annual festive lights switch-on.

Community groups, including Zennors Dance School, Bewdley Choral Society, Bewdley Concert Band and Sing & Tonic, kept visitors entertained throughout the day. There were also street entertainers, coach and horse rides and a children's carousel.

BBC Hereford & Worcester's Andrew Easton, who hosted the event, was joined by Father Christmas and Bewdley Mayor Roger Coleman for the grand lights switch-on at 5.30pm.

Bewdley Rotary Club, which hosted a hot pork roll stand on the day, raised around £2,000 for local charities.

Rotary club member Terry Garbett said: "It was a great day - the best Bewdley Christmas lights yet.

"It was really busy all day, despite being a bit damp. We sold out of the pork rolls.

"Our Bewdley School 6th formers did a great job selling chocolate covered marshmallows too.

"I'd like to say a big thanks to Bewdley Mayor Roger Coleman for his role in organising the event and ensuring it all ran smoothly."