CARNFORTH'S townsfolk and traders are getting ready for the big Christmas lights switch-on next week.

Caroline Charnley, chair of Carnforth and District Chamber of Trade, is hoping that this year's display will be "more appealing and more festive" than ever before, thanks to £5,000 given by businesses and shopkeepers, Carnforth Town Council, the chamber of trade and the community benefit fund for extra lights.

As darkness falls on Wednesday, December 7, Father Christmas and his sleigh will lead a parade from the top of Market Street around 6pm, with the lights to be turned on at the Market Square around 6.30pm. Attractions will include fairground rides, children's colouring competition and balloon making, craft stalls, entertainment from Bay Beat Band and Isabel Taylor's School of Dance, and winter treats such as gluhwein, pulled pork, hot dogs, burgers and candyfloss.

On Saturday, December 10, the first of two Christmas craft markets will take place at the War Memorial Gardens, from 10am to 2pm, featuring the Salvation Army Band.

The following Saturday, December 17, Father Christmas and his donkeys are expected to pay a visit to the festive market.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, December 24, last-minute shoppers will be treated to a carol concert by the Salvation Army at the war memorial around 4pm.

For more, visit www.carnforth.org