OXFORDSHIRE sparkled at the weekend as Christmas lights were switched on across the county.

Thousands of people braved cold weather as they saw their towns and villages lit up for the festive season.

More than 4,500 people were in Witney town centre on Friday night to see Conservative Party leader and local MP David Cameron switch on the lights.

Father Christmas arrived with real reindeers, and Queens Dyke Primary School pupil Eleanor Scamell was crowned the town’s winter princess.

Catherine Dunn, chairman of Witney Town Council’s christmas lights working party, said: “It was a fantastic event and we are incredibly proud of how it went.

“Everybody who came out had a lovely time, and we were very pleased Mr Cameron was able to switch on the lights.

“So many local charities and community groups had stalls and really benefited from the evening.

“It was brilliant.”

In Woodstock, mayor Peter Jay pressed the button on Saturday night as more than 1,000 people crowded into the town square.

Townsfolk enjoyed lanterns, music and carols, including a performance by the Oxford Gospel Choir, and were given mulled wine, soup and chestnuts to help keep them warm.

Tim Henman’s parents, Tony and Jane Henman, of Weston-on-the-Green, were guests of honour.

Mr Jay said: “It was a terrific event, and I think everybody went home very pleased.

“The turnout was excellent, despite the weather, and it was nice to see so many children in the town enjoying the lights.

“It was a great pleasure to have the Henman family with us, and I think everybody is delighted with how the evening went.”

Burford held its annual advent fair yesterday with music, street entertainers and an ice rink. Father Christmas was on hand to switch on the lights.

Town mayor David Cohen led the celebrations. He said: “It was a magical event which everybody enjoyed.

“More than 300 people turned up to see Father Christmas, and all the children counted down before the lights went on.

“There was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the town.”

In Banbury, boyband Blazin Squad were due to perform tonight alongside a host of local musicians.