The festive season kicked off in style as glitter cannons exploded with a bang when the Christmas lights were switched on in Lowestoft.

Lowestoft Journal: Lowestoft 2015 Christmas lights switch on in the town centre.Lowestoft 2015 Christmas lights switch on in the town centre. (Image: Nick Butcher)

Hundreds of people gathered for the annual event in the town centre, despite the cold winds and rain,

The Beach Radio presenters Paul Carter, Tim Lindon and Mikey Faulkner switched on the lights alongside Marina Theatre pantomime star Emily McAvoy.

They were also joined on stage by the Beach Bunny, Woody Bear, mayor of Lowestoft Stephen Ardley and Father Christmas.

The crowds who had gathered on London Road North were also treated to a performance from London-based girl band NW10, who performed their new single despite only arriving in the town 15 minutes before the lights were switched on.

The town then burst into colour at 5pm as the lights were switched on, accompanied by the traditional countdown and this year, new glitter confetti cannons.

The entertainment had kicked off shortly after 3pm with the Marina Theatre's DPA show choir singing a number of well known songs including Merry Christmas Everybody and also a song from Frozen- particularly apt due to the cold conditions.

Darren Newman, Lowestoft Vision BID Manager said: 'Despite the weather and the challenges we had, it was another great turnout.

'When we turned up this morning, the high winds caused a few problems when putting the stage up which is why were a bit delayed and the fun fair couldn't come down.

'But the people of Lowestoft have come out and supported us on what was a truly great event.'

For a full report with comments from the performers, pick up a copy of this Friday's Journal

What did you think of the switch-on? Email: joe.randlesome@archant.co.uk