In pictures: Christmas countdown officially kicks off with a bang at Lutterworth light switch-on

Crowds flocked in their hundreds to the town centre to enjoy the much-anticipated calendar event.

Festivities were well and truly in the air (along with fireworks), with a fun fair, choir singers and stalls selling crafts and treats from roasted chestnuts to mulled wine and, of course, the big man himself touched down for a meet and greet.

Businesses got involved, collecting for charitable causes, including No12 High Street, while Sweet Sisters hosted its own mini Christmas Market for imaginative youngsters.