THOUSANDS of eyes turned to the skies to witness the spirit of the festive season wrapped up in a series of magical events at the big switch-on of Stratford's Christmas lights.

Parents, families and fascinated passers-by stopped for more than 45 minutes to witness the best ever switch-on, which saw Father Christmas arrive by helicopter, carolling and a huge firework display, which captivated the audience.

Last Thursday's afternoon of entertainment began at the new venue of the anniversary fountain on the Bancroft Garden, chosen to allow more people to crowd round, with music from the Avon Jazz Band, which kept early visitors jigging in the rain as they waited for the main event.

The proceedings began in earnest when the Christmas lights committee and town councillors, along with mayor Juliet Short and Stratford District Council chairman Bill McCarthy, processed down Sheep Street from the town hall, accompanied by children's film favourites, such as Mrs Potts from Beauty and the Beast and the Push me-Pull you from Dr Dolittle.

Councillor Short launched the countdown to Christmas and said the best part for her had been riding in a cherry picker when the Bridge Street tree was decorated with baubles signed by the town's children and said for years to come, it would be called the Children's Tree. She then led a chant of "Santa!" aimed at coaxing the jolly fellow out of his bright yellow helicopter, which landed on the Bancroft outside the theatre.

The only major drama of the evening occurred when a young child dashed towards the helicopter and its whirling blades, but was plucked to safety.

Father Christmas brought a bright smile to the face of every child and child at heart with a rendition of When Santa Got Stuck Up the Chimney and helped launch the final countdown.

The crowd, breathless with anticipation, counted down from 10 and watched the lights blaze into life, swiftly followed by an amazing firework display, which kept the waterside streets jam-packed for several minutes.