A SCHOOLGIRL from Bourne End put her stamp on the village’s festive celebrations last week during a charity fun night for the Christmas lights switch-on.

Eight-year-old Ruby Paish got the honour of seeing her name in lights after winning the annual competition to design the event’s feature piece.

The St Paul’s School pupil’s creation, depicting the legs of Father Christmas upside down in a chimney, joined nine others from previous years along the Parade.

The Rotary Club of Cookham Bridge and Bourne End Community Association joined forces joined forces with shops and businesses for an evening of celebrations throughout the village.

Rotarian David Davis of the organising committee said: "It was a real pleasure to see so many young families enjoying our annual Christmas event in the village.

"Local businesses, our Community Association and the Rotary club of Cookham Bridge worked closely together to make this a success."

Nearly 1000 visitors and shoppers were treated to attractions including ther arrival of a donkey and Shetland pony, a Santa’s Grotto, a funfair and bouncy castle.

And for adults, Marlow’s Rebellion Brewery laid on free beer during the festivities.

Alongside the late-night shopping, school and church choirs, a saxophone band and a handmade music machine serenaded the crowds with carols and Christmas music.

Councillors once again pledged to offer free parking in Wakeman Road Car Park for the entire day.