Norton on Derwent town council is planning a Christmas spectacular this year after pairing up with the Derwent Arms to light up the town.

The annual switch-on will take place on November 24 behind The Hive on Commercial Street, with activities kicking off from 3pm and the switch-on at 4.30pm.

The town council has invested in new Christmas lights and displays and are aiming to extend the festivities between the The Hive in Norton and the pub.

Families will be able to enjoy the official lights switch-on - complete with children’s rides, entertainment and Santas sleigh - before moving on to more fun at the Derwent Arms with a grand Christmas tree light switch-on.

The Hive is also hosting a Christmas Fayre from lunchtime.

Di Keal, Mayor of Norton, said: “As we have new Christmas lights this year we hope to make the switch-on a bit more special for everyone to enjoy.

“We are hoping that after Santa’s visit and the lights switch-on at 4.30pm everyone will take a walk down Commercial Street to admire the lights and continue the celebrations at the Derwent Arms with more activities for all ages.

“Simon and Charlie at the pub absolutely love Christmas and will have not one, but two Christmas trees, plus lots of other fun activities for children, with mulled wine and mince pies on tap for the adults!”

The Derwent Arms, Church Street, Norton said: “We at The Derwent Arms are thrilled to have been asked to work alongside Norton-On-Derwent Town Council to bring some magic to the town this Christmas.

It’s great to know that our efforts so far have been noticed, and to have been asked to provide partnership in the Christmas event only shows our vision and passion for our local community.

“We are so excited to share some cheer this coming season.”

Di added: “Further details of all events will follow in mid November - so watch this space - but it’s starting to look a lot like Christmas in Norton!”

Meanwhile, Pickering’s Christmas light switch-on will take place on Saturday, November 23, from 2pm to 6pm, with fairground rides, music and a visit from Santa.

Kirkbymoorside will have a Christmas market on November 30 from 10am to 3pm.

Helmsley’s Christmas lights switch-on will be on November 29 from 4.15pm.