HONLEY officially began the festive season last Friday when the 2011 Christmas Lights were switched on.

Festivities began at 5pm with music played by Two Valley’s radio who broadcast the whole evening live from the centre of Honley.

Santa was in his grotto and children queued with smiles and excitement as they waited to see him and receive a special present.

For the first time this year there was a parade that began from Trinity Church and marched along the main street led by Hade Edge Junior Brass Band, and in the procession along with residents of Honley were representatives from all the local churches, the Mayor of Kirklees, Clr Eric Firth, chairman of the parish council Tom Dixon and the chairman of the Holme Valley Business Association Royston Rogers along with Inspector Mark Trueman and of course Father Christmas on his sleigh.

The car park soon became full as the parade gathered with villagers and visitors to listen to festive carols played by the band.

After the carols the mayor and councillors greeted everyone, wishing them a very happy Christmas.

The final act before turning on the lights was the presentation for the window display winner which this year was The Warehouse.

Finally, the lights were turned on by the Mayor and Vicar of Honley and Brockholes, the Rev David Barnes of St Mary’s Church amidst a hail of explosive confetti.

A spokesman for the organisers said: “In all the event was a great success and thanks to all the volunteers and Holme Valley Business Association and Pastor Ian Gooch and members of Full Life Church Holmfirth, whose tireless efforts and fund raising made the event possible.”

He added: “The year 2012 is a target for the Holme Valley Business Association members who are launching a massive fund raising effort so that new lights and features are really brought to the forefront in Honley and Holmfirth.”