Rain and windy weather did not stop Santa or the people of Aspatria from enjoying their Christmas lights switch-on last weekend.

Deputy mayor Alan Reay said he was surprised and delighted at the number of people who turned out for the event.

"It was so wet that we had to move the entertainment into the Beacon Hill school hall which meant there was a bit of a crush. Santa lit the Christmas tree at 5pm, which marks the official lights switch-on. He was then supposed to be in his grotto for an hour but it was 7pm before he got away because of the number of children wanting to see him."

He said Santa had also revealed a secret while he was in town.

"He told me that the tiny settlement of Harriston is one of his favourite places."

That is why the Aspatria celebrations started in Harriston before a parade down the town centre from the business park to Brandraw car park where he was mobbed by small children.

A very wet Christmas tree was lit up before Santa retired to his grotto to greet children individually.

Entertainment was provided by Mandy's Diva dance group, the band Collision and the Richmond Hill School Choir.

Frozen princesses Elsa and Anna greeted children who also enjoyed face painting and balloon craft.

"The weather could not have been worse and the day could not have been better," Mr Reay said.

He thanked all those who had helped including the Dreamscheme who had not only built the grotto but also provided some elves to help on the day.