SANTA Claus came to Johnson Fold as the community held its Christmas lights switch-on.

The event on Saturday, organised by the residents' association, included the the traditional lantern parade and a performance from Wingates Brass Band.

The lantern parade left St James' Church at around 6.30pm and walked around the estate before returning to the church.

The Rev Chris Gorton, parish priest of St James The Great, said: "There was a very good turnout despite the weather so we were all very happy with that. The estate was very well represented.

"It is an excellent opportunity for the whole community to come together and it was a very good opportunity for me, as somebody who is new to the area, to meet lots of people."

The Rev Oli Preston, curate of St Peter's Parish in Halliwell who lives in Johnson Fold, said: "It was a great event with a really good turnout and everyone had a really good time."