'The whole high street was covered' - Mayor expresses delight at popular Festival of Lights in Market Drayton

Civic leaders have hailed a successful Festival of Lights in Market Drayton with an increased turnout boosted by free parking.

New Christmas lights glistened in the town last Saturday after being switched-on by Mayor Roy Aldcroft and Elspeth Talbot, 16, from the Grove School. 

The student has produced artwork for the front cover of the Market Drayton Schools Calendar Project this year and was invited to be apart of the popular Christmas event. 

Hundreds watched as the pair switched on the lights and officially began the festive season.

Market Drayton Town Council provided free parking on Towers Lawn car parks for the event after councilors voted in favour of paying Shropshire Council £400 for the provision.

New Christmas lights have also been provided by the town council this year, and Mayor Roy Aldcroft was pleased to see them shining in all their glory in front of a large crowd. 

He said: "It was absolutely brilliant. 

"The turnout from members of the public, stall holders, blue light services, right down to the gingerbread man. Everybody really put their heart and soul into making it a success, and it was.

"I stood on the stage when we were putting the lights on and I couldn't believe how far back people were stood ready for the lights to kick off.

"The whole high street was covered down into Cheshire Street and it was brilliant. 

"I’m getting quite a lot of compliments regarding the way which the trees have been dressed and the way it brings them to life even in the winter."

The Mayor added: "I think the free parking helped. The town council organised and paid for that which is great."