Festive spirit was alive and kicking in Chatteris when hundreds turned out for the annual countdown to the town’s official lights switch on ceremony.

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

Traders selling Christmas goodies, fairground rides and games were among the entertainment on offer as families milled around town soaking up the atmosphere.

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

One visitor said on Facebook: “It was my first visit to see the Chatteris Christmas light switch on and I was amazed by how good it was.

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

“The lights are fabulous and the sense of community spirit was wonderful. Well done to everyone who made the event a success.”

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

Established in 1985, Chatteris Christmas lights are visited from people from miles around and can be seen daily from 3pm until midnight.

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

The town’s trees are selected from the Elveden Estate each year to feature in the churchyard and Market Hill Gardens.

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

Volunteer teams work to help prepare the town for the big event. If you would like to help then contact them via their Facebook page.

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)

Cambs Times: Chatteris Lights switch-onChatteris Lights switch-on (Image: Archant)