Vanilla Ice wowed the crowds last night as he opened the Dickens Christmas Market.

American rapper, starring in panto in Chatham this year, joined Medway Mayor Cllr Ted Baker in launching the market in Rochester Castle Gardens after a lantern procession along the High Street.

The pair then teamed up to turn on 10,000 sparkling lights to cheers from the enthusiastic audience.

Ice treated them to a rendition of Ice Ice Baby and said: "I'm so excited to be here and Peter Pan is going to be the best panto ever."

Mr and Mrs Christmas, Dickensian characters and school choirs were also involved in the parade.

Admission to the Dickens Christmas Market and Festive Food Fayre is free and runs until Sunday, December 18. The market is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.