The main road through Welshpool town centre will be closed on Saturday, November 27 for the town's winter festival and lights switch-on.

Welshpool Town Council has confirmed plans for the "new format" Winter Festival, which will take place between 3pm and 9pm on November 27, and will see Broad Street closed to traffic.

There will be indoor and outdoor market stalls, with a range of Christmas gifts and treats. Local businesses will be open.

The lights themselves will be switched on at 6 p.m. when it is hoped some local celebrities will join Santa, the Town Mayor and the winner of the design a Christmas light competition to turn on the lights.

This is preceded by Santa arriving after a short procession.

There will be different attractions and entertainment in the street and on the stage to keep everyone busy. If you are a school, dance groups or community organisations and would like to perform a 20 -30 minute slot between the times of 3:30pm - 8:30pm. then please get in touch.

If you are a singer or in a band which would like to perform after 7 p.m. then please do let us know.

Children will be able to send letters to Father Christmas by using the magical post box, which will be in the indoor market from November 1. Santa’s grotto will be open November 19 and 20 and again on November 27 in the indoor market.

Each child will receive a special gift from Santa, all free of charge.

Meanwhile a Christmas tree competition will also be held on the day, with entrants asked to decorate a 3-4 ft tree and bring it to the town hall by Friday, November 26.

The winner will receive a plaque with their name on, which must be returned next November.

A Christmas card design competition is also being held as part of the festivities, with entries due by November 17.

If you would like to get involved in this year’s Winter Festival or either competition, contact Kimberly on 01938 553142 or email kimberly@welshpooltowncouncil.gov.uk.