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CROWDS enjoyed mulled wine, hot chestnuts and toasted marshmallows as they gathered in Weymouth for the Christmas lights switch-on.

The annual Victorian Shownight kicked off with dance performances and a lantern parade from Hope Square to Lower Bond Street.

The crowd was entertained by the cast of Weymouth Pavilion's Christmas Pantomime before Mayor of Weymouth and Portland Kate Wheller switched on the Christmas lights.

She said: “It is terrific to see so many people here tonight, it has been a great evening and everyone is enjoying themselves.

“It's a really good turnout and I hope everyone will be coming again tomorrow.

“The pantomime put on a terrific show for everyone and all the lanterns look wonderful.”

The event was the start of a weekend of Christmas fun in the town, with festivities continuing tomorrow.

Visitors can use Weymouth's park and ride for free, with buses leaving every half an hour.

President of Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce Julie Cleaver attended the last night in full Victorian costume.

She said: “We are sponsoring the Christmas Window Competition and it is great to see so many shops open and in the Christmas spirit.

“Victorian Shownight is a great night and it really brings the town together and hopefully will bring the shops more money and allow people a bit more time to get their Christmas shopping done.

“I think it really marks the start of Christmas in Weymouth.”

Visitors to the town centre enjoyed an array of stalls, ranging from traditional hog roast, hot chestnuts and mulled wine.

The popular Whole Hog mulled wine stall welcomed plenty of custom.

Owner Mark Jones said: “We've been quite busy because people know this is where our stall will be.

“They come every year and really love us.

“It's been a great night and I think it would be even better if there were a few more stalls lining the street.”

The festivities will continue tomorrow from 10.30am and will include the Santa Parade and an array of musical acts throughout the day.

Panel 10.30am Event opens on Main Stage

11am: Santa Parade starts at the top of St Marys Street down to his grotto at St Marys Church

Noon: Santa will be in his grotto in St Marys Church Noon: St Andrews School choir

12.30pm: Punch & Judy Christmas Show M&S

12.30pm: Victorian Music Hall show: Cineworld

1pm: Wey Valley School Choir & Dorset for Singing

1pm: Weymouth Roch Choir: St Mary's Church

1.30pm: Festus Derriman Morris Dancers: M&S

1.30pm: Weymouth Ukeleleans

2pm: Kadia Contemporary Folk Band

2:30pm: Punch & Judy Christmas Show: M&S

2.30pm: Victorian Music Hall Show: M&S

3pm: Danny Adams & Friends Christmas Show