CROWDS flocked to Silsden for the annual Christmas market and switch-on of the festive lights.

The annual market, which attracts Christmas shoppers from miles around, was held on Sunday in the town hall and outdoors in nearby Briggate.

There were many stalls by local traders and community groups, while Silsden shops were also open and offered refreshments to the shoppers.

The market was organised by the Silsden Gala committee.

The Christmas lights are arranged by a volunteer committee with funding from several bodies, including Bradford Council and Silsden Town Council.

Silsden mayor Chris Atkinson praised the Christmas lights committee for their work, and for several townspeople who have pledged money towards the £6,000 annual cost.

The gala committee spent £2,700 on a new lighting feature outside the premises of Aire Valley Insurance, which is providing electricity for free.

Council Atkinson added: “We put an extra string of lights on the bandstand, so it’s lit both inside and out. There’s also a new angel.

“It’s good that people appreciate the lights and the efforts that go into putting them up.

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“There was a good turnout on Sunday. We seem to be getting more and more people each year.”