Festive scenes for town residents

Wem was being transformed into a winter wonderland today as the town's Christmas festival took place.

The town was starting its festive celebrations from 5.30pm when the Christmas lights were also going on.

Santa Claus was dropping by on his sleigh, while the Mayor of Wem, Councillor Douglas Cooley, was performing the big Christmas lights switch-on at 6.35pm.

Other attractions include late-night shopping at town centre shops, singing from Whixall School choir, a nativity play and music from Wem Jubilee Band.

Motorists are being warned that some roads in the town centre are expected to be closed to traffic until about 9pm.

The Wrekin Housing Trust has sponsored the Wem Christmas Festival for the second year running. The trust, which has rented and shared ownership homes in Aston Street, Wem, has donated £500 to the festival.