The grand switch on of the colourful Christmas lights in Chatteris will take place on Saturday December 2.

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights Switch on in 2016Chatteris Lights Switch on in 2016 (Image: Archant)

The display was established in 1985 and is recognised as one of the most impressive display for miles around, say organisers.

A spokesman for the town’s lights committee said: “It is voluntary and the results of their hours of hard work, before and after the switch on event, are enthusiastically appreciated by the residents and visitors to Chatteris over the festive season.”

“The lights are on daily from 3pm until midnight so you can come into town, wander through the main streets to enjoy them, and then drop in to one of the restaurants, cafeterias, public houses or take-aways for some refreshment.

“The lights have been a great success story from the outset, and with well deserved support from the community, will continue to be so. “Volunteers, donors and fund raisers are always needed.”

There will be traders, street entertainment and fair ground rides, a Christmas fayre and music from the Variante Ensemble in Market Hill Gardens.

There is Santa in his grotto, the tree festival in St Peter and St Paul’s Parish Church and soup in Emmanuel Church in East Park Street.

The trees are selected from the Elveden Estate to feature in the churchyard and Market Hill Gardens.