Thousands of people turned out to witness the Wem Christmas lights switch-on, which included three camels!

The three exiting guests – Coco, Max and Ruby – were joined by the ‘three Kings’, residents Jon Edge, Julie Blake and Mark Horden, to deliver gold, frankincense and myrhh to Mary and Joseph at the St Peter and St Paul’s church green.

Guests including Wem town mayor Councillor Edward Towers and his wife Lynne, 2017 Wem Snow Queen Louise Clorley, Wem Beavers, Wem Cubs, Wem Army Cadets, Alisha Jane Dance group, Wem Youth Club, Wem Young Farmers followed by Wem Rotary Santa Sleigh.

There was music provided by local schools, with Cllr Towers and Louise judging the best shop window display, giving first prize to Katie’s Florist, second prize to Severn Hospice and third prize to Soul Bird.

Liz Broomhall, on behalf of the Wem Christmas lights committee, said: “The town was full of people in the spirit of the season and visiting many shops that had stayed open.

“Our annual raffle sold 800 books (up 150 to last year), we had nearly 50 prizes donated from shops, services and local groups. It was a fantastic evening we as the committee are very proud to be involved when the locals join together for events such as these.

“We would also like to thank Winston Farms at Tetchill for their generous offer of the two lovely trees one in the Church green and the other on Jubilee Square, of which we have joined with Wem Rotary Club and use as the ‘Tree of Light’.

“Thank you to all the helpers, tree erectors, tree transporters, electricians, road stewards, raffle ticket sellers, among others.”