HUNDREDS of people turned out to switch on Hagley Village's Christmas lights on Saturday, December 1.

The event, which was attended by around 400 people including volunteers from the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA), had everything from Morris dancers entertaining the crowds to dressage horses decked out in Christmas coats.

Councillor Steve Colella, chairman of Hagley Parish Council and district councillor for Hagley West, switched on the lights at six in the evening to officially welcome Christmas to the area.

"The lights came on at six with Santa making his annual trip so it was well received," he added when asked how it went.

"The pubs and restaurants were also full, so businesses were doing a very brisk trade that night, so it was good for the village of Hagley

Mr Colella said even the weather played its part in helping everything run smoothly.

"This is the second year we’ve had a road closure for the event, so that’s important with more and more people wanting to get involved.

"I must give thanks to many people, there are too many to name, but it was a combined effort from the Hagley community which was very much appreciated."