SHOPPERS received a visit from Santa Claus at Castlepoint’s Christmas lights switch-on.

Families gathered outside Marks and Spencer where a throne fit for Father Christmas was placed beneath the shopping centre’s famous giant illuminated reindeer. 

As Santa arrived, 50s band Miss Annie and the Midnight Shift blasted festive tunes from the stage.

Dozens of boys and girls queued up for their chance to tell him what they want for Christmas.

Meanwhile, roller skaters dressed as big shiny baubles zipped through the crowds, and a snow king and queen posed for pictures as they towered over the shoppers.

Just before 6pm, the anticipation grew as the countdown to the Christmas lights switch-on began. 

Helping to light up the festive decorations were members of the Cinderella pantomime cast. Strictly and Tracy Beaker star Dani Harmer was joined by her prince charming, Rhydian Roberts from the X Factor and ugly sisters David Ball and Michael Chance.

As the lights came on, a snow machine was also switched on to really make it feel like Christmas.

Bill Riddle, operations manager at Castlepoint, said that the launch will also announce a series of activities and demonstrations throughout December that will create a special period of joy and festive merriment to the shopping park

He added: “We will be creating a special atmosphere to get the festive season underway.

"There will be lots to see and do within our retail stores with demonstrations from various specialists and artists and also the opportunity to win a range of prizes in our 12 days of Christmas count down competition.

"Many of our stores will extend their late night opening policy to 9pm from Thursday, December 1 to help shoppers get those special presents.”

For more details go to castlepointshopping.com.