Hundreds of people gathered in the centre of Somersham for the annual switch Christmas lights switch-on.

Carols and other seasonal tunes were played by the Somersham Town Junior Band and the crowd joined in the singing, which was led by the children’s choir from the Whitehall School.

There was plenty of mulled wine, fruit punch, shortbread and mince pies on hand to add to the festive atmosphere and the proceeding were livened up by Baptist Minister Bruce Daniels who acted as master of ceremonies.

The actual switch on of the lights was performed by four children who were winners of a handwriting competition; Daisy and Yasmeeniah from Somersham Primary School and Tom and Lara from the Whitehall School.

Once the area had been illuminated by the lights on the Christmas tree, the bus shelter and the surrounding shops and houses, Father Christmas arrived and handed out sweets to all of the children who gathered round his sleigh

The evening was completed with the winning tickets being drawn for the huge raffle that helps to raise funds to finance the provision of the lights, the prizes being donated by local businesses and individuals.