HUNDREDS of people braved the freezing cold temperatures on Friday as Wisbech was lit up for the Festive season.

The switch-on of the town’s Christmas lights included a visit by Santa, who handed goodies to children who gathered in the market place.

Further entertainment was provided with a fairground ride, music from The Brink and a preview of the pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk by the RATz drama group.

Susanah Farmer, deputy town clerk, said: “We had a very good turnout considering how cold it was. Everyone who turned out seemed to enjoy themselves.

“We had a little extra interest in that last Thursday was the 65th birthday of town councillor Michael Hill - so everyone also sang happy birthday to him.”

Thousands of pounds have been spent on this year’s display by Wisbech Town Council. A new addition to this year’s displays are rows of lights alongside the River Nene in North Brink and South Brink.