The cast of Marlowe Theatre pantomime Cinderella helped flick the switch to turn on Canterbury’s Christmas lights on Thursday.

Crowds flocked to St George’s Street to see stars including John Partridge, Stephen Mulhern and Sue Devaney count down to the big switch on.

Earlier, musical entertainment came from groups including Envious and prizes were donated from companies including interior design store Roper Place.

Whitefriars popular German Christmas market also returned on Thursday and runs right through until Christmas Eve.

The festive atmosphere includes the chance to relax with a glass of Glühwein or taste traditional Bratwurst and Waffleto. An array of stalls offer presents including jewellery, hand crafted toys, fragile glass ornaments and unique hats in all shapes and sizes.

The market will be open late on Thursday nights until 8pm in December, for more information visit www.whitefriars-canterbury.co.uk