CHRISTMAS came early in Melrose at the weekend.

Santa was the special guest as the town celebrated the switching on of its Christmas lights.

Melrose Community Council staged a carol service around the tree in Market Square, led by Melrose Silver Band. And the Rotary Club organised a Christmas parade round the town - the first for a number of years - accompanied by Melrose Pipes and Drums. More than 100 children, along with their parents and grandparents, joined in the festivities. And each were given light wands to help them on their way.

At the end of the carol singing Santa arrived on his Sleigh to talk to them and give them all oranges. The children from Melrose Primary School braved a clear, but very cold, evening to sing and wait for Santa. For the adults, the Community Council provided hot drinks and mince pies.

And many shops stayed open later to celebrate.