DURSLEY’S Christmas lights will arrive with a bang this year as the delayed fireworks display will now coincide with the event.

On Friday, November 28, the town’s Christmas lights will be switched on by celebrity guest Susan Lynch, who will be accompanied by the Wotton and District Silver Band.

Dursley and District Round Table will be supporting the event with high-level fireworks to coincide with the switch on – best viewed from the town centre.

The switch-on countdown will take place at 5.30pm by the town’s real Christmas tree, located on the pedestrian area between Bennett Jones and Barclays Bank.

High flying fireworks are to act as a backdrop to the switch-on, and will be completely free of charge.

Following the switch-on, people will be encouraged to make their way to the market place ready for the arrival of Father Christmas and the start of the lantern parade at 6pm, while carol singers keep the crowds entertained.

Many of the shops in will stay open late and there will be a wide variety of stalls in Parsonage Street and at the market place for some early Christmas shopping.

Shops have been invited to take part in a window display competition, meaning many businesses will be showcasing pantomime themed decorations.

Stalls will be opening from 4.30pm onwards and hot food will be available in the market place.

Children will be able to enjoy fairground rides and entertainment.

Visitors are invited to help with the pantomime atmosphere in the town by getting into character and costume.

Dursley Town Council would like to thank Bennett Jones Estate Agents, Tree Management and Soils HS who have offered to sponsor and install the town centre’s real Christmas tree.

Parsonage Street will be closed to all vehicles between 2pm and 10pm.

Castle Street short stay car park will be closed to all vehicles between 1pm and 10pm.

Additional disabled parking spaces will be available in the swimming pool car park.