Plucky schoolboy Ryan Claxton had his second VIP ceremonial job of the weekend today, Saturday, when he opened a new travel agency in Aylsham, the day after switching on the town's Christmas lights.

The five-year-old was diagnosed with leukaemia in May but after five months treatment at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge he is now in remission.

His switch-on chance came after his parents asked at the town hall if there was anything Ryan, who goes to the John of Gaunt infant school, could do at the festive night.

The family was delighted when he was given the honour of turning on the illuminations on Friday night, and the opening of the new CAS Travel shop on came as a spin-off organised by town officials.

It saw him take the ceremonial scissors to the tape across the doorway at the Frazer's yard branch in front of invited guests including town council chairman Eileen Springall.

Mum Lynsay Shreeve said: 'It was a real treat for Ryan and has brightened up his Christmas. We are so proud of him because he has not complained once during his illness.'

CAS was founded 12 years ago at Sheringham by Christina Schwab and Stuart Harrald, and also has a branch at Cromer.

The Aylsham shop will be managed by Jo Dobbie who has 21 years experience in the travel trade, with Sian Jeffries and Alison Barran completing the team.