THE countdown to Christmas in the Wee County has officially begun as Alloa First turned on the Christmas tree lights last weekend.

The huge tree on the high street was officially lit up last Saturday, November 23, and hundreds turned up to see it throughout the all-day event.

This year's event was totally funded by Alloa First and the local business community and for the first time there were Christmas lights put up on Bank street, Mar street and Candleriggs.

There was entertainment for all ages throughout the day, which started at 11am, with multiple musical performances as well as a Santa's Grotto for children.

Alloa's Bowmar Pipe Band opened the show and those in attendance had the opportunity to see performances from Forefront, Spotlight Theatre and the Sauchie Community Choir. Mar Street's own Dance Royals also performed.

Diane Brown, a member of Alloa First, explained how the variety of performances really helped bring in a great family crowd for this year's event.

She said: "Despite the weather we had a really good turnout and some local traders have said they had a really busy day.

Over 150 kids visited Santa's Grottos where Anna's Larder donated sweets and Bayne's donated bottles of juice.

Diane added: "A big thanks to everyone who took part and of course to all who attended."