CHARD’s build up to Christmas is set to start in the town with the big lights switch-on.

Around the town, 99 Christmas trees are being placed as well as the traditional lights.

A number of community groups will also be on show in the town on Friday evening from 6pm.

Jason Baker, Chard town councillor, member of Chard town team and Christmas lights organiser, said: “Chard Christmas lights switch-on will take place this Friday.

“The event, will take place on the evening from 6pm and we are looking forward to a dry evening. We are looking forward to an evening of family fun which will have lots of fun things to do in the town centre including bouncy castle, reindeer rodeo and lots lots more.

“Chard Evolution Majorettes will lead a parade which will head down the high street to the Guildhall at 6.45pm followed by Kelly Leigh school of dance and Chard carnival royalty then Darth Vader and his storm troopers will be clearing the way for Father Christmas.

“The Christmas lights will then be switched on at 7.30pm along with more than 90 Christmas trees. Then Santa’s Grotto will be open and photos can be taken with Darth Vader and the Stormtroopers in the Guildhall.

“There will also be a Christmas craft fayre in the Guildhall through out the evening. I’m sure this will be a great evening and would like to thank all of the town team and volunteers who will be on the road closures and duties during the event.”

The same evening will see Crewkerne’s Lighting Up Night. The event is set to start at around 5.30pm. Santa Claus is then due to arrive at 7pm to switch on the lights.

There will also be music, a craft fair, a children’s Christmas hat competition, a market and charity stalls, Phoenix Brass Band, Majorettes, Carol singing and children will get the chance to visit Santa’s Grotto.