FINAL preparations are being made for Ringwood’s first Christmas lights switch-on in several years.

The town council is gearing-up for the penultimate event of the town’s calendar.

It will include fair rides, live music, snow machines, Santa’s Grotto and a lantern parade and has also attracted stall holders from as far away as Birmingham and Weston-Super-Mare.

Local businesses will also be well represented and many of the lights and decorations have been sponsored by shops in the town.

Town clerk Steve Nash said: “There will be something for everyone old and young and importantly we will have church groups providing nativity plays in addition to traditional Santa and naughty elves giving out sweets and presents. I am very much looking forward to it.”

The event, which will take place on Saturday, December 6, between 10am and 7pm will see the town centre closed off to all traffic and entertainment provided throughout the day.

Mayor Barbara Woodifield will be judging a ‘best-dressed window’ competition and shop staff and managers will be asked to dress as Elves for the day.

For more details contact town.council@ringwood.gov.uk or ring 01425 473883