CHRISTMAS began in Welshpool over the weekend, as both the Christmas lights were switched on, "snow fell" and the Winter Festival took place.

Hundreds of townsfolk lined Broad Street as Mayor Steve Kaye, assisted by little Elf, Willow Sadler, switched on the lights on Friday night.

The town took on a classic snow scene as a snow machine wafted flakes down from the top of the Town Hall to the cheering crowd below.

Santa’s Grotto did brisk business with free entry and a small gift for every child. The indoor market was open and the town's fire fighters had their re-released singe "Do They Know it's Christmas" on sale at the Royal Oak.

The Winter Festival was held on Saturday.