CHRISTMAS arrived in Padgate at the weekend as the lights of its festive tree were switched on.

The Christmas tree at Padgate Community Garden, at the junction of Padgate Lane and Brookland Street, was lit up on Sunday, December 4, by Cllr Tony Higgins.

Father Christmas was in attendance as residents celebrated the switch-on with carol singing, live music from a brass band, mulled wine and mince pies.