Thousands descended on Maidstone to see Christmas lights come on and performances from an X Factor star.

Singer Jade Ellis, a finalist in last year's TV singing contest, who had a heated confrontation with Gary Barlow, took to the kmfm stage.

She was joined by dance duo Misunderstood, former members of Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalists Myztikal, while performers from the Mandy Ellen School of Dance kept everyone on their toes with some energetic routines.

That all-important flick of the switch was taken by Mayor of Maidstone Clive English plus the stars of the Hazlitt Theatre's panto Dick Whittington.

The entertainment ran from 4pm-6pm on Friday evening with kmfm presenter Garry Wilson hosting.

See Friday's Kent Messenger for more pictures from the switch-on.

Christmas lights picture gallery