CHARD town centre will be buzzing with excitement tonight (November 28) when festive activities are organised to accompany the Christmas lights switch-on.

The evening kicks off at 5.30pm in Fore Street, where there will be a rocking rodeo reindeer, bouncy castle and slide, carnival displays and much more.

A craft fair will take place at the Guildhall from 6pm and Kelly Leigh School of Dance will lead a warm-up session ahead of the long-awaited Santa Run, which sets off at 6pm for a 6.15pm start.

This year’s Santa Run has the theme Around the Guildhall in 80 Ways and people are being encouraged to take part by walking, running, skipping or getting around any way they wish to raise money for the Mayor’s charities.

Santa will also be in his Grotto in the Guildhall, so children should bring along their lists ready to tell him what they would like for Christmas.

CRESTA 1610 will be demonstrating Zumba and the cheerobic.

The lights will be turned on by Mayor Jenny Kenton and the Deputy Mayor, the Carnival Princess and Calendar Girls will also be present.

Hot dogs and drinks will be available on the night, so bring the whole family along and enjoy the festivities.