A full day of festivities is taking place when Maidstone's Christmas lights are switched on.

Before the town is lit up for Christmas, Fremlin Walk is hosting its very own Elfie Station.

From 2pm on Thursday youngsters will be able to dress up as their best elf, while there will also be stilt walking nut crackers and festive flower girls.

The Lindy Hoppers will also be dancing in the shopping centre.

Four hours of festivities will take place ahead of the Christmas Light Switch On at 6.30pm in Jubilee Square.

Hollyoaks' actor Jack Quickenden will help turn on the lights and will perform a song, as will pupils from Molehill Primary Academy.

Jake will be with other actors he set to share the stage with during the Hazlitt Theatre's pantomime of Beauty and the Beast.

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone.