Thousands of people came out onto Stafford’s main shopping street to help the town begin its festive celebrations.

Well-wishers lined the route all along Greengate Street to usher in Santa’s Parade on Saturday. Later on, fundraiser and paramedic Ray Edensor flicked on the town’s lights with help from Stafford’s mayor Councillor Stan Highfield, prompting a spectacular firework display.

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Mr Edensor, aged 53, is known as the “running paramedic” and has raised more than £300,000 for Dreams, a charity which helps seriously and terminally ill children. He has worked for the ambulance service for almost 30 years and was nominated by members of the public.

But the festive fun started earlier in the day.

Classic London buses, a horse and carriage, arts performers, youngsters, Stafford Lancers, kids TV favourites Dennis and Gnasher took part in a parade, joined by Santa and his reindeer.

Events were also relayed on a giant screen while there was plenty of rides and fun for youngsters.

Leroy Robb, aged 33, of Eccleshall Road, Stafford, was at the parade with wife Mandy and three-year-old daughter Sharaya. He said: “We love the parade – I know my daughter really looks forward to seeing Santa.”

Fireworks and live music brought down the curtain on a special day for the town.