NETHERTON has been propelled into the festive season following its Christmas lights switch on.

Crowds sung carols around the anchor with the Dudley Salvation Army Band on Friday evening and there were plenty of bargains on offer at the Netherton Arts Centre's Christmas fair.

Santa also made an appearance and met youngsters in his grotto.

Dudley South MP Mike Wood said the Netherton Regeneration Group had done "an excellent job of ensuring the smooth-running of the event", adding: "It was great to see members of the community of all ages coming together to join in the festivities.”

Halesowen News:

Dudley South MP Mike Wood at the Christmas fair in Netherton

On Sunday, it was Sedgley's turn to get into the Christmas spirit as it hosted its first switch-on event.

Hundreds of residents visited the children's fun fair in Gospel End Street and market stalls in Ettymore Road before surrounding the stage in the Bull Ring to await the illuminations.

All Saints' Church also stayed open later than usual to welcome visitors to its annual Christmas Tree Festival, while the church hall hosted the  Sedgley Archives Group's exhibition about the history of shops, dating back to 1940.

Halesowen News:

Martin Jones with Rev Guy Helett at the Sedgley Shop exhibition