The countdown to Christmas is officially underway with the lights switch-on in Strood marked this evening.

kmfm presenter Garry Wilson oversaw the proceedings on stage joined by Mayor of Medway Cllr Jan Aldous and a host of excited children.

With just over a month to go until the big day, the festive fun saw a host of performances from groups from around the Medway Towns.

The Studio of Arts performed a dance routine and they were also joined by the Centre Stage Theatre Academy.

Julia Donaldson's famous character The Gruffalo dropped in to help with proceedings and even got contestants up on stage to join in with some floss dance moves.

The event, sponsored by Specsavers, took place in the High Street with the Christmas tree and lights shining bright after the mayor hit the button.

If you missed the Strood switch-on tonight, then head down to the four other lights switch-on events across the Towns between now and December 3.

Chatham's switch-on at Military Square will kick off at 3.45pm tomorrow followed by Gillingham in Smith Square on Friday, November 26 from 3.45pm.

Rochester will host the event on the following evening from 3.45pm at the Blue Boar Lane junction with the High Street.

The event in Rainham on December 3 will round off the five town switch-ons.

All lights switch-ons are due to take place at 5pm.

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