IF you are looking for a Christmas lights event with a difference, the Sandwich lights parade and carnival is a must on Saturday night.

Cllr Paul Carter, one of the organisers, has promised this year’s festive extravaganza will be the best yet.

It will be held in and around six venues in the town centre between 2pm and 8pm, making it a family-friendly affair.

He said: "Last year was our biggest event so far and we are building on that success."

There will be more bands and musicians before the official lights switch-on at the Guildhall after the illuminated lantern parade, which starts at 6.15pm

Three outdoor closed-street venues will get the party going with festive stalls, food vendors and entertainment plus three indoor locations with even more variety of food, drinks, crafts, musicians and entertainers.

Father Christmas will be in his grotto and it will be open for little ones from early afternoon.

There will be a fun fair and families will be tempted by the smells and flavours of a hog roast.

Cllr Carter added: "There will be a magical mix of two samba bands, many marching bands, costumed revellers, Christmas cyclists and street entertainers.

"The Newfoundland dogs will be in their best attire."

The lights will be switched on at 7pm by Eve Kelly, who won the honour after taking part in a raffle by the Chamber of Commerce.

• In the Mercury this week we wrongly reported that the Christmas lights switch on is on Friday. We apologise for the error.