HUNDREDS of people flocked to the streets for this year’s Christmas lights switch-on in Chard.

There was an action-packed programme of entertainment, with dancers from local troupes and a special visit from Darth Vader and the Dorset Troopers entertaining the crowds.

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Santa also rolled into town on his sleigh to help switch the lights on, and after a brief break, will go on a whistle-stop tour around the surrounding villages in the build up to the big day.

Cllr Jason Baker, town councillor and member of Chard Town Team, which organised the event, said: “There were several hundred people that attended the switch-on and it was a great night. I’m sure everyone enjoyed all the fun and got to meet Father Christmas, Darth Vader, Chewbacca and the Stormtroopers – they were well received and a great attraction.

“Thank you to Kelly Leigh school of dance, Chard Evolution Majorettes, Dorset Troopers and Eclipse CC, and the biggest thank you goes to Chard Carnival Committee and Eclipse carnival club for saving the day and agreeing to marshal the road closures so that the event could take place.”