RAMSBOTTOM'S festive shopping extravaganza was set to kick off today with the town's annual Christmas Lights show being switched on by Ramsbottom Traders' Association.

Thanks to the hard work of Ramsbottom traders and donations from retailers and Ramsbottom farmers' markets, this year will see another traditional light display in retailers' premises around the town.

Bury Council has also chipped in some cash raised from stall hire at the town's popular monthly farmers' markets.

A 30ft silver Norway Spruce Tree is taking prime position in Market Place.

It will be complemented by the illuminated Santa's Sleigh mural located at the Grants Arms Hotel.

Elaine Powell, Bury Council's town centres co-ordinator, said shoppers who chose to visit Ramsbottom would be spoilt for choice if they were looking for Christmas gifts.

And she highlighted a wide range of food and drink on offer to hungry and thirsty shoppers.