Christmas has arrived in Deal, Sandwich and Dover with three big events to mark the count-down to turn on the town centre lights.

A huge crowd turned out on Thursday in Deal when John Thomson from Coronation Street and Cold Feet pushed the on-switch, with help from other cast members of the panto Robin Hood, opening at The Marlowe Theatre Arena on Saturday.

Friday's ceremony in Sandwich was held after a walking parade through the town centre with lanterns and music, and Dover's big day was on Saturday when six hours of entertainment was organised. Winter magic was also provided with a few snow falls.

* To see pictures from the event in Deal and Sandwich buy the East Kent Mercury on Thursday. For Dover's buy the Dover Mercury, also on sale on Thursday.