A TEEN who pedalled hundreds of miles across the country for Children in Need was guest of honour at the Wroughton Christmas lights switch-on.

Thomas Stamp, 17, grew up in the village and said it was a privilege to join youngsters from Wroughton’s infant and junior schools to bring some sparkle to the 20ft Christmas tree outside the Ellendune centre.

“It’s nice to be in front of people,” Thomas told the Adver.

Last month the New College pupil, who has Cerebral Palsy, joined BBC One Show star Matt Baker and five other youngsters in a 400 mile relay rickshaw cycle ride from north Wales to the BBC Children in Need studio near London.

The talented sprinter, who has his sights set on Paralympic glory, admitted the epic journey had hit him - but only briefly: “For the first couple of days I was quite tired.”

Joining Thomas to turn on the lights was six-year-old Jaxon Nunn. Asked how it felt to switch-on the lights, little Jaxon said: “Exciting. Everyone from Wroughton was in front of us.”

The popular event, which has been running for at least quarter-of-a-century, saw the Wroughton Silver Band accompany a round of carolling. A Christmas market in the Ellendune community centre offered a respite from the cold night air.

The lights switch on is organised by Wroughton parish council and sponsored by Richard James estate agents. Parish councillor Hazel Hodd said: “I love Christmas and this is the start of the Christmas season.”

Cricklade, Highworth and Royal Wootton Bassett held Christmas light events on Friday and Saturday nights.