Thousands flock to Stafford as veterans switch on town's Christmas lights

Market Square and the surrounding streets were heaving with crowds who turned out for the event.

Sapper Clive Smith, from Hednesford, who lost both his legs above the knee in a roadside explosion while serving in Afghanistan,and 91-year-old Don Gray from Eccleshall took to the stage to lead the celebrations.

The pair were chosen in a public vote after the borough council asked people to nominate past or present local servicemen or women who they thought deserved the honour.There was live music throughout the day including an Abba tribute band, and the switch-on was followed by a spectacular fireworks display.

Mayor of Stafford Councillor Ray Sutherland, who turned on the lights alongside the two veterans, said it was one of the biggest turnouts he had ever seen for the event.

He added: "It was an amazing day and I felt privileged to be a part of it."

Mr Gray was nominated as he faced what Winston Churchill described as 'the worst journey in the world' as he served on the Arctic Convoys escorting vital supplies to Russia during the Second World War. He was a stoker working in the boiler and engine rooms below deck on the destroyer HMS Caprice and was honoured with a medal by the Government for his wartime Arctic service last year.

He said it was a 'great experience' and added: "It is an honour to be asked to switch on the lights. I was representing all the veterans from the wars."

Sapper Smith said he was 'surprised' to have been approached by the council.

He added: "Taking part in an event like this alongside someone like Don is an honour, and it is great to see so many people turn out."