CHRISTMAS arrived in Newtown St Boswells on Sunday as the village turned out in force to welcome Santa.

The annual lights switch-on attracted more than 300 villagers who enjoyed the customary Santa stroll from Milestone Garden Centre to the village tree.

And they were entertained along the way by Piper Gus.

The St Boswells Concert Band performed carols before and after the switch-on.

And there was plenty of ho-ho-ho-ing as Santa handed out bags of sweets to the 100 or so children who had gathered around the festive fir.

Prior to the Santa Stroll children were given glow sticks and hot snacks by staff at Milestone.

George Luke from the organising committee paid tribute to local shopkeeper Ian Frame who donated Santa's sweets.

And also to staff at the local Co-op who donated some of the lights, and to Milestone for their continued support of the event.

Mr Luke added: "I would also like to thank everyone for coming out to see our lights being switched on and making this such a well-supported community event.

"Our tree is smaller than normal this year but if the roots take it will be bigger next year."

Following Sunday's lights switch-on organisers held a craft sale and concert in the nearby Community Wing.