FINAL preparations are under way for Canvey’s annual Christmas lights switch-on.

The free entry event will officially start at nppn on Saturday, November 29, with Christmas stalls, funfair, children’s games and entertainment in Furtherwick Road and at the top of the High Street.

By popular demand, Canvey Town Council has arranged for two real reindeer to attend again this year.

Town Crier, Jack Burns, will be making announcements in the early part of the day and Martin and Su from the Heart Breakfast Show will be on stage from 1pm until 5pm.

Children have the chance to learn circus skills and the youth bus will host a children’s craft workshop.

Peter May, chairman of Canvey Town Council, said: “This is our seventh annual Christmas event and everyone is welcome to join in the fun. There will be lots going on to entertain the whole family. We want everyone to get into the festive Christmas spirit and it’s also organised to support our local businesses.”

Entertainment will be provided by local bands and singers, including Bif Bam Pow, Double Headed Jester and Chantelle Pasquale.

The ATC air cadets band, Castle View School ‘Glee Club’, Mala Dance and Canvey Golden Eagle Majorettes and a host of others will also perform.

Santa will be greeting families on his sleigh during the day and the Christmas lights switch-on takes place by Canvey Library at 5pm.

Two 20ft Christmas trees will take centre stage with icicle lighting and motif lighting on business shop fronts, icicle lighting on Canvey Library and lighting on the trees by Foksville Road.

Furtherwick Road from the junction of Foksville Road to Waarden Road will be closed from 7am until 9pm on Saturday, November 29.

Adiversion route will be in place during the road closure.

First Group will be diverting its buses during the temporary road closure from 7am to 9pm on the day and routes will be published at bus stops and on their website, firstgroup.com Formore information, contact the town clerk on 01268 683965 or clerk@canvey island-tc.gov.uk.