The countdown to Christmas has officiallly begun.

Hundreds of excited locals gathered in Farnham last Saturday for an unforgettable festive lights switch-on celebration.

The town was bathed in seasonal sparkle as the Christmas lights were officially switched on by special guest Greg Stafford, MP for Farnham and Bordon.

The festivities at Gostrey Meadow kicked off at 1pm with a lively performance by Rowledge School, followed by shows from other schools, theatre companies, and bands.

Gostrey Meadow was filled with children enjoying funfair attractions including bouncy castle and spinning teacups ride. Meanwhile, their parents queued for stalls selling festive treats such as mulled wine and mince pies, as well as other food and beverages.

Also in attendance was a special guest from the North Pole -Santa Claus himself. Sat in his grotto, he chatted with children about their Christmas wish lists and asked parents whether their kids had been naughty or nice this year.

The lights were switched on before the crowds at 4.30pm by Greg Stafford, alongside Farnham mayor Cllr Brodie Mauluka, town crier Michael Stephens and Santa. As the town was bathed in festive lights and the tree in Gostrey Meadow sparkled magnificently, onlookers were treated to fireworks and sprinklings of fake snow.

Cllr Mauluka said: “It was an excellent event, there was a brilliant atmosphere and, according to what people who attended have told me, it was the best ever in Farnham.

“The schools and children who performed were amazing, you can’t fault their efforts - it was 10 out of 10 from all of them.”

He thanked the organisers and performers for their dedication in making the event a success.

After the mayor performed the honours in illuminating the town he then tuned up to perform on the big stage with his band Brobed Stills.