LEGENDARY singer Paul Young helped turn on a town’s Christmas lights - and even treated a pair of care home residents to a musical performance.

The popular 80s singer, who had three number one albums, was in Sturminster Newton in Dorset to light up the town’s festive decorations on Saturday, November 27.

Crowds gathered around the main Christmas tree in the town centre to watch the music icon turn on the lights and perform with his band Los Pacaminos at The Exchange.

Two care home residents from Newstone House, Pat Steer and Gerald Blackburn, joined the much loved singer in the town for the switch on as well as the lantern parade and festive celebrations, which form the community’s annual get-together to celebrate the start of advent.

“What a wonderful evening to see all the families enjoy themselves and celebrate the start of Christmas,” said Mr Blackburn.

Fellow resident, Ms Steer was also impressed, she said: “I was a little chilly but it was worth it to join in and see all the wonderful lights and smiles on everyone’s faces.”

Families and school children alike all joined in with the lantern parade in the town centre prior to Mr Young turning on the festive lights.

Paul Young is best known for his hits in the 1980s which include ‘Wherever I Lay My Hat’, ‘Every Time You Go Away’ and ‘Everything Must Change’.

The artist, who still tours and records with his Tex-Mex-influenced band which he formed in 1993, treated those in attendance in Sturminster Newton to some live music.

The lights, along with the Christmas Tree, were sponsored by Newstone House - owned by Colten Care.

The home, located in Stourcastle in the Dorset market town, is rated outstanding and management at Newstone House were delighted that two of their residents were able to enjoy the event and meet the star.

Companionship team leader at Colten Care, Karlene Duffy, said: “Even though we were bracing ourselves for the storm due to hit England, that didn’t stop us.

“Gerald and Pat were more than happy to brave the weather and help with the local tradition.”