With the Christmas season getting into gear, thousands turned out to the ever-popular Westwood Cross lights switch-on.

Gabby and Marcel from ITV’s Love Island took centre stage with kmfm presenters Garry and Laura, who hosted the celebration on Friday evening.

X Factor girl band Lemonade and retro girl group Hotsy Totsy were on hand to entertain before the switch-on.

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Francesca Donovan, centre manager, said: ““Our annual Christmas lights switch on always attracts thousands of visitors from across East Kent and we were thrilled to welcome celebrity guests from two of the biggest TV shows of the year.

"Father Christmas even came and joined in, parading through the mall with his magical sleigh and bringing Rudolph and Frosty the snowman who danced all evening with the crowds.

“With Christmas shopping in full swing, many visitors took the opportunity to stock up on gifts, relaxed in the knowledge that we offer free parking and that they can shop and dine out until late."

Panto stars from Theatre Royal Margate’s The Wizard of Oz also joined in the fun, with Santa and his elves spreading festive cheer.

And the winner of the Little Stars talent show from the centre’s summer party, Kelsie Bissett, 10, wowed crowds with a live performance.

Shoppers also enjoyed entertainment from the performers from the Page Mason Dance School.

This year’s Christmas competition saw visitors take part in the centre’s ‘name the reindeer’ competition.

The winning name Sparkle McJingle Toes was suggested by Marie Whelan and her daughter, they were rewarded with a hamper full of Thorntons chocolates and a £50 Westwood Cross Gift Card.