THERE was a “huge” turnout of spectators for this year’s torchlight parade and Musselburgh’s Christmas lights switch-on on Sunday.

Irene Tait, chairperson of Musselburgh & Inveresk Community Council, said that it was the “biggest” attendance at the event following the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The evening was a great success and enjoyed by everyone,” she added.

“There was huge attendance – a great evening was had by all.”

There was a torchlight parade from the Town Hall on High Street, led by the Penicuik & Musselburgh Boys’ Brigade Pipe Band, en route to the Brunton Hall.

Loretto School Pipe Band also took part in the parade, which made its way along High Street and onto Bridge Street.

A community carol service, involving the Clark Community Choir and local clergy, was held outside the Brunton Hall.

There was a countdown to the switching on of the Christmas lights by the cast of Cinderella – Sandy Bain as Hackit, Calum Barbour, in the role of Prince McCharming, Kit Laveri, the fairy godmother/Glackit, and Rachel Still as Cinderella.

The pantomime, from Hopscotch Theatre Company and Brunton Theatre Trust, is on at Loretto School Theatre in Musselburgh from December 20 to 30.

The parade and switch-on were also supported by local sea, army and air cadets, and the boys’ brigade.

Selection boxes were handed out to children courtesy of a £1,400 donation from James Scott Funeral Directors on Bridge Street.

The funding will also provide selection boxes for East Lothian Foodbank and the community pantry at the Musselburgh East Community Learning Centre.