Postman Pat and his black and white cat Jess were joined by hundreds of people as Ashford's Christmas lights were switched on.

The children’s TV characters were joined by kmfm breakfast presenter Emma Adam and stars from The Marlowe Theatre’s pantomime Aladdin to help Mayor of Ashford Cllr John Link switch on the lights at 4.30pm at the bandstand.

The festive and family fun day, organised by Ashford Borough Council, began at 9am when a special farmers’ Christmas gift market opened in Park Mall.

The day also included an array of foods, late-night shopping and choirs singing cheerful tunes to help visitors get into the Christmas spirit.

Cllr Neil Shorter, portfolio holder for town centre focus, said: “Ashford Borough Council is delighted to support the Christmas lights switch-on.

“It is a wonderful event that people of all ages can enjoy and we hope residents will come along to not only celebrate the festive season, but also support our local traders who work so hard for us all year round.

Music from Ashford Rock Choir, Ashford Community Choir and the Salvation Army was performed at the bandstand in the High Street.

Shops including Marks & Spencer, Debenhams and Wilkinson are staying open until 7pm. =