FOLLOWING the great success of last years Christmas entertainment in Abergavenny the town council, Chamber of Trade and Cibi Walk Shopping Precinct plan to put on a bigger and better event.

During the run up to the festive season there will be street entertainers on the four Saturdays before Christmas starting from the official turning on of the Christmas lights on Saturday, November 26.

Local NHSound radio road show will provide entertainment on the day of the switch-on and help to welcome Santa and his reindeer to arrive in style at the Town Hall where the turning on of the town's Christmas lights will take place.

Helping Santa and the mayor switch on the lights at 4.30pm will be Abergavenny's very own Commonwealth cycling champion Becky James.

This will be followed by the Mayor, Santa and his reindeer who will lead a torch light parade through the town to Cibi Walk where the precinct's wonderful timeless Christmas lights will be turned on followed by carol singing around the Christmas tree with the Salvation Army.

Last year many people in the parade brought a torch or lantern and this year it is hoped that many more will join in to make this truly a river of light through the town. So find that torch in the kitchen drawer, get a battery in that lantern and join the start of Christmas at Abergavenny.

Fiona Beavan, owner of the Miserable Cow Coffee Bar, said, "It was wonderful last year to have local children get involved with the parade dressing up as reindeer that they are eager to help Santa again this year!

"Councillor Sam Dodd and I dressed as Ice Maidens with my mother as the Ice Queen, and we hope not to disappoint you all this year with another fun Christmas outfit. Councillor Dodd supports us every year with this year being no exception. I hope she has a cracking good time!

"This year I want to encourage everyone to come along and wear their favourite Christmas outfit, whether it is your own creation or even just a Christmas hat, come along and join in the parade as it is a time to be jolly and have lots of fun!"