Owners have decorated their boats and lit up the UK's only Royal Harbour in the festive spirit.

A dazzling display can be seen with vessels covered in rows of Christmas lights attached to their masts and flashing ornaments on deck for visitors to enjoy.

The illuminations were organised by Royal Temple Yacht Club, Ramsgate Marina Association and Ramsgate Town Team and funded by Ramsgate Town Council and Ramsgate Town Team.

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This video by photographer Mike Bell showed the harbour in full colour, the way it will remain until January 6.

Royal Temple Yacht Club secretary Carol Jackson said: "This year 59 vessels lit up and took part compared to 32 last year.

"Many of the arches lit up and we had over 20 businesses take part this year.

VIDEO: Ramsgate harbour lights

"There were categories with people voting for their favourite yachts and arches and we went round with collection boxes with money going towards the RNLI.

"We also went to businesses in the harbour and the town and asked them to donate prizes.

"I think the illuminations brought a lot of visitors to the town and it built bridges between the yacht club and the community to promote Ramsgate as a whole.

"It was a fantastic opportunity to bring local businesses together and we can be very proud of promoting our town.

"The Christmas lights at the harbour is having a snowball effect and I think it will gain each year.

"We've heard that some visitors have booked into hotels especially to come and see the lights."