The festive season officially arrived in Southwold tonight with the annual Christmas lights switch on.

At 5pm a large crowd gathered in the Market Place to watch Father Christmas push the button and illuminate the seaside town from the Town Hall balcony.

Although the weather was cold the festive spirit prevailed.

Michael Ladd, chairman of the Christmas lights committee, said: 'The switch on creates such a warm and seasonal atmosphere throughout the Market Place.

'It's been a huge success. With several thousand gathered to watch – I would think this is one of the largest switch ons of the past five years.

'It is a community event and one that Southwold does so well.'

Mr Ladd added: 'I want to give a special thank you to Adnams for sponsoring the event because without them we really wouldn't be able to do any of this.'

Festivities in Southwold will continue with a carol service at St Edmunds Church from 6pm on Sunday, December 17.