HUNDREDS of people crowded into Dovercourt town centre to watch as the annual Christmas lights were switched on.

The event in 2011 took over Kingsway and High Street for the evening, with traders also taking up the opportunity to stay open late for festive shoppers.

Special guests included Chase Lane Primary School pupil Tia Attridge - who had the privilege of switching on the lights, after winning a competition.

The countdown to the illuminations was led by the Town Crier, James Cole.

Harwich Mayor Barry Brown was in attendance, and of course, the star of the show was Father Christmas.

Traditional carols were performed by talented children from Ramsey and Dovercourt Crusaders and the Royal British Legion pipe band, while other entertainment included a juggler.