Monmouth's candlelit procession kicked off the Christmas spirit as the group travelled up Monnow Street last Thursday evening (13th December), led by the mayor, Gerry Bright and his macebearers, John Blake and Mike Brown.

The Comprehensive School's wind section provided the music for the procession and the Town Band led the way for carols around the Christmas Tree in Agincourt Square.

Welcoming citizens, young and old, the mayor invited Cinderella, in true pantomime style to turn on the lights for the Christmas Tree.

A fancy dress competition followed the address to the crowd by Rev Nick Munday, and the winners were; Sarah Powell, Lucy Powell and Alfie Wheatley, receiving £10 book tokens as prizes.

Santa Claus also found his way to the Square, with some help from his friends at Monmouth Rotary and after greeting the youngsters, sat in his grotto to have a quick chat about their Christmas list.

See this week's Beacon (19th December) for more photos