Hitchin's Christmas Lights switch-on has been hailed as a huge success.

Our town's annual event in Market Place wowed the large crowds in attendance on Saturday.

The eagerly-awaited event featured a host of acts on stage in the square, Santa's Parade and live music from Hitchin favourites, The New Town Centres.

Hitchin resident Danny Pearson, NHC Community Engagement Officer (Hitchin) and local Beano writer told Hitchin Nub News: "What a brilliant event the people of 'The Shire' were gifted this year. After missing out last year the Christmas tree lights switch on was back with a festive bang.

"The lights, the food, the smells, and sounds. It was a real treat to have the event back in the town square. It was great to see all the food and drinks being served up by some local favourites like the Vic, Halsey's, Café 77, and The Churro Boyz.

"And to top it all off Father Christmas himself came along to help switch on the Christmas tree lights.

"What more could one wish for? Congratulations to the many people who were involved in putting on this wonderful festive treat."

Busy Danny also managed to run over from his Beano event at Next Page Books to catch the last few songs from the fabulous Hitchin Rock Choir.

Music also came from Somewhere2Sing, The Offley Choir and Glee Choir.