A festive event is coming to Swaffham in December to celebrate the annual Christmas lights switch on.

Market Place will be the centre of the event on December 1 and it will be packed with stalls selling a wide variety of Christmas themed treats and gifts.

Some businesses and shops will also open late and a funfair will be in town, with rides and games for all ages.

Even Santa Claus is set to make an appearance at a grotto in the Arts Lounge Gallery and after meeting him, children can say hello to a real-life reindeer at Plowright Place, not far from the market.

The switch-on will take place at 6pm when stunning ice white LED lights illuminate the trees in the Market Place and around The Pedlars car park.

Thousands of lights will also light up the historic Buttercross dome in the centre of town and street lights will be lit with various designs using the letter S in honour of the town's name.

In front of the Assembly Rooms there will be a 20ft Christmas tree, which will be decorated with coloured lights and baubles.

The event is being organised by the town council and supported by the Swaffham Trade Association (STA).

The STA has spent two years raising money to bring more festive cheer to Swaffham and they hope the entertainment for all ages will help attract new visitors who want to enjoy the festive cheer.

This year the donations from members of the public and businesses have contributed over £5,000 toward the council's budget for the event.

The Town Clerk, Richard Bishop said 'This is the time of year when we appreciate the efforts of our fantastic volunteers in Swaffham, their help brings these community events together.

'This is the second year the Town Council and Swaffham Trade Association have worked together on the Christmas Lights Event and we hope everyone comes along and enjoys the festive cheer – one of the highlights in our calendar.'

The entertainment will run from 2pm and 8pm, starting with performances from a children's choir from Swaffham Junior School and Sacred Heart School, the Oasis Church Band and Singers and the Fakenham Town Band.

Santa Claus will be at the Arts Lounge from 2.30pm.