This week sees the launch of the festive season in Llandovery with the official Christmas lights switch-on.

Brought to you by Llandovery Town Council to add Christmas sparkle and joy to the area, the switch-on takes place this Friday, November 25 and offers a full day of shopping, entertainment fun and laughter and is guaranteed to leave you full of holiday spirit.

The day begins with Christmas stalls from 2pm offering a vast selection of food and drink and handmade gifts to purchase those unique Christmas presents.

A walk around the hustling streets, visiting the many and varied shops the town has to offer, from boutique clothing to gifts and books, and a lunch at one of the local cafés and restaurants will help fill your time before the evening events.

At 5pm Llandovery Town Crier Joe Beard will launch the night with a traditional cry, heralding the start of the switch-on ceremony and of Christmas celebrations in the town.

Host Helen Lovell will then introduce live performances from Llandovery choir, Ysgol Rhys Prichard, Ysgol Bro Dinefwr and Llandovery College.

Many shops and the market will be open until late as will many of the cafés and restaurants offering the perfect place to take a well-earned shopping break.

You can even relax and soak up the atmosphere with mince pies and mulled punch in Market Square.

And look out for the funfair rides, and a visit from Father Christmas himself – courtesy of The Rotary Club of Llandovery.

And even better there will be free parking in the main car park, thanks to Carmarthenshire County Council.

Mayor David Long said: "I am very much looking forward to the Christmas lights switch-on.

"The event has been organised by the town council for the benefit of the residents and community of the town and I look forward to welcoming everyone to mark the start of the festive season."