Hundreds turned out to celebrate the switch-on of Ramsgate’s Christmas lights yesterday afternoon.

From noon until 5pm there was plenty of entertainment including live music, Santa’s grotto, a land train and a human snow globe.

Children enjoyed face painting, lantern making and a carousel while adults browsed the handmade craft fair.

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Before the big switch-on, a mini-parade took place and many tucked into the festive food available from several cafes open throughout the event and the panto crew from Granville Theatre were on hand to entertain.

At 4.30pm, the streets were lit up with Ramsgate’s mayor Trevor Shonk onstage alongside panto stars and Father Christmas.

Mayor of Ramsgate Cllr Trevor Shonk said: “It was great to see so many people come out and support the Ramsgate Christmas lights switch on in the town, hundreds turned out for a fun packed afternoon.

"Thank you to everyone who volunteered and the town team for organising this on behalf of Ramsgate Town Council.

"Merry Christmas to you all”