Newent’s Christmas Lights Festival was "better than ever" this year, according a town councillor who has nothing but praise for the organisers.

Extra funds have been raised for new light displays and, although Rudolph himself couldn't make it for the switch-on, which was attended by hundreds of local people, there were actually live reindeer, much to the delight of young and old.

Newent town councillor, Colin Thomas said: "Funds raised by sterling work from both Councillor Eli Heathfield and the Sweet Memories shop allowed the committee to provide more and better lights to set off the celebration, following Santa’s procession through the town."

Cllr Thomas added: "Bringing even more to the festivities were the reindeer corralled up in Broad Street. This attraction was organised by Sweet Memories, and took it place outside the shop, so that children could pet and be photographed with reindeer.

"This actually proved exceptionally popular both with the children and adults."

Even a little snow could be guaranteed, thanks to a snow machine.

Cllr Thomas said: "A very large crowd saw ‘snow’ falling as the lights were turned on, to loud applause, after which the children went to the Memorial Hall to meet Santa Claus.

"The people of Newent clearly like this event as it is always well attended."

Cllr Thomas had nothing but praise for the team that worked so hard to make the switch-on and the lights such a success.

He said: "The new lights make Newent very festive and the Lights Committee and fund raisers should be congratulated on the work done to provide this very popular event in town each year."