THOUSANDS gathered in Rayleigh last night to watch the Christmas lights switch-on.

Southend United players flicked the switch and entertainment was provided before the main event from local school choirs and performers from the Mushroom Theatre Company.

A town crier, Newfoundland dogs, Father Christmas and his sleigh, and a variety of children’s rides and belly dancers helped the night go with a bang.

The High Street was closed to traffic from Crown Hill to Church Street in the afternoon to the early evening.

Rayleigh Chamber of Trade and Lords Golf and Country Club sponsored the event.

Blues skipper Adam Barrett said: “It’s pleasing to see a lot of people here. I think there’s a real feel-good factor with Christmas lights. It feels like it’s Christmas when they’re switched on. I’ve got an 18-month-old boy and Christmas will be a good time in our house.”

Cheryl Roe, chairman of Rayleigh Town Council, added: “It’s absolutely swarming with people. We are really pleased with the turnout. All the schools in Rayleigh have participated and last year we had over 5,000 people turn up and we are hoping for more this year.”