Hundreds gathered last night to mark the start of the festive season as Christmas lights were switched on in Loughton.

St Mary's Church in High Road was filled to capacity as families enjoyed a carol concert performed by local primary school children, before former The Only Way Is Essex star, Billi Mucklow, switch on the lights.

Shoppers visited a variety of Christmas Market Stalls and a £3,000 ice rink paid for by local businesses.

There were also live performances, a winter forest and free visits to Santa’s Grotto.

Britain’s Got Talent star Charlotte Jaconelli, who appeared on the show in 2012, also performed for the crowd.

Miss Mucklow, 24, who owns Bikram Yoga Essex, said it was a pleasure to be asked to flick the switch.

She said: "I love that I was asked to switch on the lights again this year.

"It's really nice to be out and see the locals, I'm really enjoying it."

Leah Hartman, 36, of Brook Road in Loughton, said: "It really is amazing, I have had an incredible time.

"It's fantastic to see so many members of the community out."

Thomas Fenn, 46, of Alderton Hill in Loughton, said: "I love Christmas and tonight really marks the countdown.

"We have been to see Santa and had a go on the ice-rink, what a fantastic turn out this year."