WOODLEY is shining brightly in the darkness now that the Christmas lights have been switched on.
The annual ceremony, combined with a carol concert, took place in the Crockhamwell Road shopping precinct on Saturday.
The lights themselves were turned on by the winners of the annual winter extravaganza poster contest. This year, it was siblings Nessie (8) and Niamh Hearn (6).
The pair met Woodley town mayor, Cllr Janet Sartorel, and posed with their colourful designs before pulling the lever that led to the lights appearing.
Carol singing was led by the Sainsbury Singers, with music from Woodley Concert Band. There was a solo from Charis Anne, who delighted the audience with her rendition of Silent Night.
Carols included O Come, All Ye Faithful, and O Little Town of Bethlehem, while other festive songs included Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree.
Refreshments were served by JAC (Just Around The Corner), and Woodley and Earley Lions.
The Christmas tree doubles as a Tree of Light. This scheme allows people to sponsor a light in memory of someone.
And the Lions will be bringing Santa to the streets of the town over the coming days. His route, on a specially made sleigh, started on Monday, with different venues on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings up to December 22, between 6.15pm and 8pm.
For more details, log on to: https://www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/woodleyearley