LEDBURY braved the impact of Storm Bert to celebrate the festive season as the Christmas lights switch on went ahead.

Flooding hit Ledbury and wider Herefordshire, which meant the annual Christmas market had to be cancelled. 

However, despite this, town clerk Angela Price said she was delighted with the turnout in Ledbury. 

Local artisans and vendors, who were set to offer various gifts and handcrafted items for people to get their early Christmas presents, were told less than 48 hours before that they wouldn't be able to take part in the festive fun for safety reasons. 

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Much of the live entertainment went ahead, with highlights including the internationally acclaimed Mr. Wilson’s Second Liners, a six-piece New Orleans-inspired brass band famous for their 90s club classics. 

Other performances to look forward to include traditional Morris dancers and the talented Ledbury’s Got Talent winner, Angelina X.

And at 5pm the lights were officially switched on while at the same time, a snow machine made it a white Christmas at the Market House. 

Ms Price told the Reporter: "Although we were disappointed that the Christmas Market could not go ahead as planned due to the adverse weather, we were delighted with the turnout from the Ledbury community.

"We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who braved the cold and wet conditions to join us in celebrating the start of the festive season. 

"Your dedication and spirit helped light up what was otherwise a very stormy and blustery day, bringing much-needed cheer to the occasion.

"A special thank you goes out to all our entertainers and local community groups.

"These include Mr Wilson’s Second Liners, Red Earth Arts, Looby Lou Parties, Ledbury Community Hub, Angelina X, Ledbury Poetry, Rogers Family Funfair, Ledbury and Stromstad Twinning Association, Counter Coffee, Flying Fillet, Ledbury Community Brass Band and Ledbury Community Choir. 

"Your hard work, enthusiasm, and positive energy were essential in making the event so memorable, and we are truly grateful for your contribution."

The clerk added that it is hoped the Christmas market will return as planned.