THE cold didn’t deter crowds from gathering in Earlston at the weekend to celebrate the festive season at the town’s annual Christmas lights switch on.

Thanks to the efforts of Earlston Community Council, the Christmas Lights Committee, Earlston In Bloom and a whole host of volunteers, the switch-on event was a success.

Volunteers from Earlston In Bloom worked on Saturday to create their festive foliage displays which decorated lampposts around the town.

A community council spokesperson said: “Congratulations to all the local volunteers who make this display come to life each year and great to see another good turn out for the 2021 Switch On.

“Thank goodness it wasn’t planned for Saturday – despite the weather Earlston in Bloom’s volunteers got all 85 bunches of festive foliage up safely.”

On Sunday evening locals and visitors were treated to music performed by Jedforest Instrumental Band.

And arriving on a tinsel-covered tricycle, Father Christmas took selfies with youngsters and turned on the Christmas lights.

Members of the public shared their praise of the switch on event on social media,with Carol Rae sharing: “Well done the Christmas lights crew ..1st class job again,” and Shirley Smith said: “Great show, well done to all”.