TRADERS in Cirencester made the most of an influx of people for the Christmas lights switch-on, with many staying open late to attract customers.

More than 6,000 people flocked to Market Place for the Cirencester Advent Festival, as Coronation Street star Nigel Havers flicked the switch to illuminate the town.

As a special surprise, fireworks were launched from the top of The Parish Church of St John Baptist after the lights were turned on – a first for the town’s festival.

With so many people in the town centre for the event, businesses aimed to draw in customers by staying open later and offering special discounts.

Jonathan Davies, the owner of Lock Stock & Barrel gift shop in Market Place, kept the store open until 7.15pm.

“There was a good little buzz up until around 6.30pm,” said Jonathan, who is also vice president of the town’s chamber of commerce.

“Once the lights and fireworks had happened people were keen to get home in the warm rather than shop.”

“This is a way for traders to play their part and help create a good atmosphere,” he added.

Chief executive of Cirencester Town Council, Andrew Tubb, said one of the aims of the event was to attract people into the centre to boost businesses.

“The advent festival is part of our Christmas in Cirencester initiative aimed at supporting the wider economy and local business,” he said.

“Our events are focused on welcoming both residents and visitors and seeking to generate increased footfall throughout the year by encouraging people to shop in and visit Cirencester more regularly.”

As well as shops trading late, a number of cafes that stayed open to make the most of the additional people in the town centre, including Peppers sandwich shop in Sun Mews, which handed out free mince pies and mulled wine.