THE streets of High Wycombe were packed last night as the town welcomed Paddington Bear to get its seasonal celebrations off to a sparkling start by switching on its Christmas lights.

The famous bear from darkest Peru was on stage with the Ugly Sisters and other members of the cast of this year’s Wycombe Swan panto, Cinderella, to perform the all-important festive duty.

Eventually it was a wave of Cinderella’s wand that ushered in the yuletide glow – which this year includes all-new globes of light that change colour above the High Street.

Organised by the Wycombe BIDCo, the switch-on took place in Frogmoor, which was crammed with people enjoying fairground rides and the seasonal celebrations, along with Elvis tribute act Gary Roman.

Wycombe’s High Street was in similarly festive fettle, with more rides and stalls, while some real-life reindeer were on-hand along with, of course, Father Christmas to greet children who wanted to say hello.

Also adding a bit of magic to the area was Cinderella’s carriage, parked up by the Guildhall for onlookers to enjoy, while friendly frost giants on stilts stalked the streets.

The Salvation Army band were in good tune and provided plenty of good cheer with a winning selection of carols and festive favourites to get us all in the mood.

There were plenty more singalongs and dance performances too, from the likes of Hannah Ball Primary School and Glee Club.

Check the website later today for more pictures.