SILSDEN’S festive lights were as usual switched on as the culmination of the town’s Christmas market day.

The event was well having attended behind despite poor weather at the weekend.

The town hall offered craft and gift stalls, while nearby Briggate was closed to accommodate children’s rides.

The traditional ‘rolling Nativity’ visited local pubs to sing carols, before Silsden Town Band played on the bandstand followed by an outdoor carol service and the lights switch-on.

Music and commentary throughout the festivities were provided by the Gingerlicious Company.

Organisers of the event arranged for 10-year-old Jonnie Fannon, an award-winning trials bike rider, to turn on the Christmas lights.

Jonnie, a pupil of Silsden Primary School, has ridden motorbikes for several years. He won the Oset Cup North in 2017 and 2018 and came fourth in the ACU British Nationals this year and last.

A spokesman said: “Trials bikes are a controlled and technical sport with national level riders, riding for over 6 hours. Jonnie has to ride over rough terrain without putting his feet down.

“He has lots of support from businesses and from world-famous biker Guy Martin.”