STUDENTS from a specialist Somerset hospitality and catering college will be launching Minehead’s Christmas celebrations.

On Friday (November 28), the town’s Christmas lights will be switched on by students from the Aurora Foxes, a specialist college and training hotel for young people aged 16 to 25 with learning difficulties.

It comes after an invite from Minehead Town Council.

Mayor of Minehead, Councillor Craig Palmer, said: “We chose the students from Aurora Foxes because they truly represent the spirit of our community. Their dedication, positivity and the incredible contribution they make to Minehead every day inspire us all.

“Having them lead the Christmas lights switch-on is a way of celebrating their role as real community champions. We can’t wait to see them light up Minehead and make the evening even more special.”

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Aurora Foxes principal, Mark Costello, said it was an honour to receive the invitation and for his students to play such an integral part in the town’s seasonal festivities, which this year have a Victorian theme.

“Our students have a wide range of learning difficulties and for many of them, coming to our college is their first experience of living independently in a supportive environment,” he said.

“We feel so fortunate to be part of a wider community that is so caring and supportive of all that we do and the students are thrilled to play such an important role in Friday’s event.”

The switch-on will take place at the Blenheim Road junction, outside Holland & Barrett, at 6.30pm. As part of the evening’s festivities, Foxes hotel, on the seafront, will be open and serving mulled wine.