Westfield marked the start of the festive season in style with its much-loved annual Christmas Tree light-switching event.

Westfield Parish Council hosted the annual switching on event at the Christmas Tree at the top of Elm Tree Avenue on Thursday, November 28,

The event was joined by Father Christmas, who gave a small free gift to each visitor. There was free hot chocolate and mulled wine on offer, together with mince pies.

The countdown was heartily shouted out by everyone at the gathering after a stirring ovation from Curate Nathael Worsley, who captivated the crowd with an impressive fire performance.

The lights were switched on by three Westfield FC Junior players, Stanley Collins, Tommy Barnes, and Teddy Morrison, who were pleased to take part in the event and represent their club.

The Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver band gave their renditions of some very popular carols and they were joined by Westfield Voices and Westfield Primary School choir. Everyone sang Silent Night, While Shepherds Watched and The First Noel and then the children entertained the crowds with Jingle Bells, which was also played by the school orchestra.

Local resident Chloe Kingman said: “It’s such a magical event for the kids. They loved meeting Father Christmas and singing along with the carols. It really brings the community together and gets everyone excited for Christmas.”

The event, which has become a cornerstone of Westfield's festive calendar, continues to grow each year, drawing more attendees from both within the village and surrounding areas. What started as a small gathering has now turned into a much-anticipated highlight of the holiday season, with crowds filling Elm Tree Avenue and the surrounding streets

Coinciding with the Westfield event, residents and businesses gathered on the High Street in Midsomer Norton, which came alive with festive cheer. Crowds enjoyed mulled cider, warm doughnuts, and sweets as a brass band played Christmas classics in the town's marketplace.

Organised by Midsomer Norton Town Council, the evening featured performances by local artists, carol singing, and festive stalls offering handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats.

Chairman of Westfield Parish Council, Cllr Phil Wilkinson, said: “Once again the people of Westfield had a marvellous evening. It really gets us all into the Christmas spirit.

“Thanks must go to everyone who helped to put the event together and those that helped on the evening. This is now a well-established tradition in Westfield and we look forward to it every year.”