Hundreds of people packed The Leas for Minster-on-Sea parish council's first lantern parade on Saturday.

Cllr John Nurden said: "We were totally blown away by the response which was way beyond what any of us had expected.

"We were not only surprised by the number taking part but also those who just turned up to watch.

"We have had so many kind comments saying what a family-friendly event it was. I am sure the council will be thinking of repeating it next year."

The parade was to celebrate the first time the council has installed Christmas lights along The Leas.

Many youngsters had made their own lanterns out of willow and tissue paper during two free workshops held at the council's offices in Love Lane led by Chris Reed and Laurie Harpum of Big Fish Arts.

People met at the Little Oyster car park then strolled along the prom to the Sweet Hut, led by Tim Bell and his model air ambulance helicopter.

The Fiato - The Little Big Band saxophone ensemble played festive music while councillors led by Jessica Newman, who chairs the council's community committee, and parish clerk Lauren Crockford handed out free mince pies.

Members of the Sheppey carnival court were special guests.

Councillors have welcomed feedback on the event. Suggestions can be emailed to clerk@minsteronseaparishcouncil.gov.uk

Queenborough also kicked off its festivities at the weekend, when rubbish transformed into festive cheer proved a winner at this year’s Queenborough Church Tree Festival.

The annual event, which this year ran over Saturday and Sunday (November 30 and December 1), takes place each December and coincides with the Queenborough Lights Procession.

The trees are decorated by local groups including the rowing club, church bellringers, school and nursery, Cancer Research supporters and Queenborough Wild Swimmers and attracts visitors to the church to enjoy not only the trees but the beautiful church with cakes, teas and coffees available plus fundraising raffles and a tombola.

The tree voted the most popular was created by the Wild Swimmers and had been made from bottles, cans and other bits and pieces they have collected from beach and street cleans. They said they wanted to use it as an opportunity to make a statement that there is too much litter and to show what can happen when you reuse it.

Sunday’s light procession, organised by Queenborough Town Council, was said by many to be a great success.

It saw the St John’s band lead the procession from the main road to the harbour to see a fireworks display.

Holy Trinity Church in Trinity Road, Sheerness, is holding a Christmas Tree Festival at the church this Saturday (December 7).

More than 50 businesses and organisations from around the town have been invited to display a tree and Santa Paws will be making an appearance so four-footed friends are invited to come along and bag a pressie.

The trees will be on display between 10am and 4pm, with refreshments available.

It all takes place ahead of the town's lantern parade later in the afternoon.