Thousands gathered in Gorey’s Main Street tonight for the switching on ceremony for the town’s new Christmas lighting and sound system.

Gorey became one of the first towns across the country to switch on the Christmas Lights when Santa Claus did the honours at the Market House tonight before thousands of people who braved cold conditions for the festive occasion.

Gorey was turning on its €100,000 lighting and sound system funded to the tune of €80,000 by Wexford County Council and €20,000 subscribed by local business interests.

The new Christmas lighting is brightening up Main Street, Esmonde Street and extending into the side streets as well.

Traders in Gorey are anticipating a busy Christmas trade and are promoting the town as a family friendly environment with fully stocked shops of gifts to suit everyone.