There were rosy cheeks and beaming smiles aplenty as hundreds gathered to celebrate the switching on of the Christmas lights in Lowestoft.

Despite chilly temperatures, attendees of all ages were out in force this evening to enjoy yuletide revelry and kick-off the start to festive season in style.

There was also an array of fairground rides, food, refreshments, sweets and treats as well as entertainment from Lowestoft Players performing a set from their Christmas Spectacular as the town centre was turned into a winter wonderland.

Darren Newman BID manager at Lowestoft Vision, who organised the event, said: 'It has been a very busy day and the weather has been on our side so we are absolutely delighted and especially glad to see so many members of the community who have come down to support the event.'

The festive lights were turned on by four-year-old Toby Besford, from Lowestoft, who was the lucky winner of the Elves on the Shelves competition- after successfully finding four elves hidden on the shelves of shops in the town.

Toby was joined on stage by Santa, the Beach Radio Bunny, Woody Bear of Pleasurewood Hills and Lowestoft town mayor Nick Webb.

Nick Webb added: 'It has been an excellent occasion as, once again, the community has come together to celebrate what's good in the town.

'Lowestoft Vision has done really well in organising this and its something really extra special that a child gets the opportunity to turn on the lights.'

Can you spot yourself in our photos from last night? :