THE heart of Renfrew will come alive this weekend for the Christmas Lights Switch-On, with a host of free family activities on offer.

The event comes as Paisley bids to be named UK City of Culture for 2021 and is itself part of the area’s Winter Events programme.

Saturday’s fun starts at Renfrew Town Hall at noon with some Big Top children’s drop-in craft workshops.

The sessions are free to attend and run until 4pm, with face painters and a balloon modeller in attendance.

A free interactive show by Ipdip Theatre runs all afternoon from 12.30pm and is perfect for children aged eight and under.

Children desperate to share their Christmas lists with Santa can visit his grotto on High Street from noon, while his reindeer helpers will also be there to meet boys and girls.

Kirklandneuk Primary School Choir will also perform.

And Renfrew Burgh Band will entertain the crowds with a 30-minute performance from 3pm.

A funfair will add to the excitement from noon to 6pm, situated in Charles Avenue car park.

Helping to build up to the big switch-on will be Gus from Pulse FM, together with Paisley’s Got Talent winner Hollie Robinson and the Rockus Community Choir.

At 5pm, the Christmas lights will be switched on by Provost Lorraine Cameron and this will be followed by a dazzling fireworks display, which will light up the sky.