More than 200 lanterns have been created for this Saturday's Sheerness Christmas lights switch-on.

Chris Reed of Big Fish Arts has been organising workshops across the Island teaching youngsters how to make them out of tissue paper, glue and willow.

One of the last events was at the Sheppey Gateway in Sheerness last Saturday.

Chris said: "This year we have been busy teaching Beavers and visiting schools and care homes. We are hoping for a bumper lantern parade."

Organisers from the Sheerness Town Team promise a day full of free festive fun from 10am to 5pm when the lights will be turned on by the Mayor of Swale Cllr Ken Ingleton and other special guests.

Both the High Street and Broadway will be closed to traffic from 7am to allow craft stalls and market traders to set up shop.

A special platform has been created around the clock by Island Scaffolding.

Entertainment around the clock tower will feature Becki Breiner's song-signing group, a dance display by Island 'witches' Toil and Trouble, live bands Breadline and the Jo Eden Project, singer Alex Nicole and the Medway Lindy Hoppers which meet in Queenborough.

The Rev Cindy Kent, lead singer in 60s group The Settlers, will help compere the day with Sheppey FM.

Elf-juggler Allan Swan will entertaining the youngsters with his stilt-walking skills.

Father Christmas is promising to be two places at once. Sheerness Town Council has arranged for him to greet youngsters in Jacksonwood tea rooms in the High Street in the morning.

He will also be in residence at the Cottage of Curiosities museum in Rose Street.

Many other Santas will gather for the annual Minster-on-Sea Rotary Club's Santa Saunter from the Old House at Home pub at 3pm led by the Sheppey St John Ambulance Band. Last-minute entries and register up to 2pm. The £5 fee (£3 for under-threes) includes free Santa or elf suit.

The Santas will also lead a Christmas Conga and carol singing around the clock tower after their procession.

The lantern parade will kick off from Beachfields at 4pm. All lanterns are fitted with safe battery-powered coloured lights.

Tesco and Sheppey College are also holding Christmas fun days on the same day and there will be the Blink! mini done at Beachfields from 5pm to 9pm.

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