The first of Medway’s Christmas lights went on yesterday as Chatham town centre celebrated the start of the festive season.

Stars from Cinderella, which starts at the Central Theatre next month, performed the switch-on ceremony during an afternoon of entertainment, hosted by kmfm’s Vanessa Elms.

Gillingham’s lights will be switched on by Mayor of Medway, Cllr David Carr with special guest Peppa Pig at Smiths Square, High Street next Friday.

Activities start at 3.45pm including carol singing and a visit from Father Christmas.

Cllr Carr will join forces with young baritone Matthew Crane, jazz musician Donn Barcott and Santa to switch on the Rochester lights on Saturday, November 29 at 3pm.

Street entertainment will start from 12.30pm with performances from the Medway Lion Dance Team and the Medway Baton Twirlers.

Children’s favourite Fifi will switch on Strood’s lights at Friary Place on Saturday, November 29 at 4.30pm.

Rainham Shopping Centre welcomes Harry and his Bucket Full of Dinosaurs on Friday, December 5. Harry will be helping the mayor to switch on the lights with a sprinkling of magic snow at 5pm.