The festive clock is ticking to a special evening in Frome on Friday (25 November).

The town's sparkling Christmas Lights Switch On will be preceded by a parade of lanterns and the annual event promises to get the festive season started with a night to remember for all.

Santa has also taken time out of his busy schedule to visit Frome on the night.

You'll find him and his elves in a grotto on the ground floor of the WHY office, 14-15 North Parade, BA11 1AU, between 4.30-7.30pm. It costs just £3 per child on the day and the money raised supports We Hear You's vital services for children, young people and adults who have been affected or bereaved by cancer and life-threatening conditions. Book at https://tinyurl.com/yc5cjr42

Mayor of Frome, Cllr Sara Butler said: "I'm truly excited that there's not long until we bring Christmas joy to our town's streets, and I can't wait to see you all for a night of community and celebration that will get the festive season started with a swing!

"Make sure you wrap up cosy and enjoy the delicious warming treats on offer and don't forget to bring your change as there will be a collection for Frome's Christmas Get Together."

Alongside Frome Town Council, Aster Group are delighted to be sponsoring Frome Lanterns parade. There is still time to make your own lantern and get involved in the parade, just pick up a kit from Frome Town Hall or Discover Frome Information Point and get creative.

Get tips and advice, including how to make your own eco-friendly glue, on the Frome Lanterns website.

Road closures will be in place from 4pm so anyone planning to attend is asked to walk to the event if possible.

The Cattle Market, Merchants Barton and Vicarage Street car parks will remain open to enable people to park until they are full. The Cork Street taxi rank will be relocated to Saxonvale, alongside the pedestrian entrance to the Kingsway, and buses and coaches will be diverted, please look out for the signs on relevant bus stops.

Aster Sales is the sponsor of this year's Lantern parade. They are a housing provider that offers shared ownership and affordable rental homes across South West England, including Frome. Aster have over 1200 properties in Frome providing homes for over 3050 residents.

The festive timetable

• 17.00pm: Event begins
• 17.00 – 17.20pm: Performance begins Frome Town Band
• 17.25– 17.50pm: Performance Rock Choir
• 17.55 – 18.15pm: Performance Back of the Bus
• 18.20 -18.25pm: Performance Fire spinners
• 18.20pm: Lantern procession commences from St John's Church
• 18.40pm: Lantern procession arrives in the Market Place
• 18.45pm: Mayor on balcony for light switch on
• 18.50pm: Samba party