A CHRISTMAS carol - or two - are likely to be sung at Dursley’s Christmas lights switch-on event this year.

The Charles Dickens-themed event on Friday, November 23, is open to all wannabe Oliver Twists and David Copperfields who wish to dress up and enjoy the festivities marking the author’s centenary.

Stalls, hot food and drinks as well as children’s rides will be available from 4.30pm, with the carol singing starting at 5.15pm.

The countdown to the switch-on by the Mayor of Dursley Jane Ball will start at 5.30pm by the town’s Christmas Tree between Bennett Jones and Barclays Bank.

Soon afterwards, Father Christmas will make a special visit at the Market Place to lead the children’s lantern parade up through Parsonage Street.

Battery-operated tea lights will be given out to children wishing to take part.

Traders are encouraged to keep their shops open that evening and anybody wishing to have a stall at the festivities should contact Dursley Town Council.

Because of the celebrations, Parsonage Street will be closed to vehicle access from 2pm to 10pm on the day.

Cam will have its first ever Christmas lights switch-on event this year amid plenty of other seasonal activities and stalls.

Cam Parish Council and Berry Blue Café are working together to pull off the festive event which will run from 3pm onwards on Thursday, November 29.

There promises to be plenty of stalls offering food, drinks, crafts, sweets and even home made honey and wreaths in the town centre.

The official switch-on will be at 4pm, with mulled wine and mince pies being made available to help keep people warm.

Children will not feel left out either with a number of entertaining activities planned as well as a potential visit from Father Christmas.

People also have an opportunity to set up their own stalls at the event.

For more information, contact the council on admin@camparishcouncil.gov.uk