ALLOA is basking in festive cheer following the switch on of Christmas lights at the weekend.

People gathered on the High Street on Saturday, November 24, to check out the illuminations while enjoying an afternoon of entertainment.

Organised by Alloa First, the town’s recently renewed business improvement district, the event opened with the Alloa Bowmar Pipe Band.

The show was hosted by Big Al once again and all the acts on stage came from the Wee County.

Delighting the crowd on stage with singing and dancing were Alloa Musical Players, Just Dance Elite Dance Centre, Spotlight Youth Theatre, children from St Mungo’s RC Primary School, Sauchie Community Choir with Forefront Stage School on stage for the grand finale.

It was a jam-packed afternoon with many families turning out to support the local acts on stage and to enjoy fair rides.

As each year, the centrepiece of the town centre illuminations in the Christmas tree standing tall at the performance area on the High Streets while just about every street in closer area is sparkling with festive lights.

Diane Brown, interim project manager at Alloa First, was glad to see many happy faces on the day.

She said: “I want to thank the local businesses and organisations who contribute to Alloa First.

“Their support ensured that we were able to hold the Christmas Light Switch On this year.

“Clackmannanshire Council have in the past helped financially but due to budget cuts it has fallen to Alloa First to fund the whole event.

“It was great that the local community all pulled together and helped create a packed programme of first class entertainment.

“The Christmas spirit was certainly alive and well in Alloa town centre and we were thrilled to see the crowds and so many families enjoying themselves.”