The organisers behind a Christmas lights switch-on event which was disrupted by youths have said they will invest in security for next year.

It comes after families attending the annual event in Sittingbourne High Street on Saturday became “fearful” after a group of youths began causing havoc with physical and verbal attacks.

The incidents, which were reported to the police, involved teenagers throwing water at the entertainment act, Rock Choir Kent, as well as riding bikes at members of the public and knocking barriers over.

Now in a statement released on Facebook, the chair of Sittingbourne Christmas Lights and Sleigh Rounds, Danielle Randall has said: “We need to raise extra money for security next year.”

She added: “These events don't happen by themselves. They happen because of the kindness of people who donate money and who volunteer.

“They take a huge amount of hard work, and to have them spoiled by a thoughtless few is so sad for the town and everyone who enjoys them.

“The last few years have been tough, not least for us here in Sittingbourne. Christmas is one of the times when our town comes together, and it would be such a shame if we lost the lights because of this.”

She went on to say that families attending the event should be feeling “safe and excited for Christmas” but that the public’s help is needed to fund additional security measures.

A JustGiving page is live where people can donate towards the Christmas lights switch-on for next year. You can donate here.

On the Crowdfunding page, it says: “Unlike many other towns, our lights and event are not funded by councils and retailers so we are reliant on donations to continue bringing Santa round on his sleigh, lighting up the High Street and putting on switch-on day, the biggest event of the year in Sittingbourne High Street, enjoyed by thousands of people.”