HUNDREDS of people showed up in the pouring rain to watch the switch-on of Runton Road’s famous Christmas lights display.

Around 20 houses in the Branksome cul-de-sac turned on their impressive displays to gasps and cheers from the crowd on Saturday.

Then crowds were treated to a performance from the Disco Mad Dance Academy – who danced to a number of festive tunes.

The popular annual event, now in its 28th year, will attract thousands of people over the next couple of weeks.

The street’s illuminations, which can be seen from half-a-mile away, were even featured on BBC’s The One Show in 2012.

The lights attract a steady stream of visitors up until Christmas Day, with many donating generously at the collection boxes outside the houses.

Last year, the residents raised over £13,700 for Julia’s House and Forest Holme Hospice.

The money raised also helped seven-year-old Mason White who has Epidermolysis Bullosa and Olly Reid who has severe cerebral palsy.

This year, residents will again be fundraising for Forest Holme Hospice and Julia’s House.

They will also be collecting for Dee Tubbs, a Poole Hospital nurse who suffered a major stroke, Freya Barry, who has leukaemia, and Sarah Waters, who has MS.

Organiser Mick Phillips, who has lived on the street for more than 20 years, said the switch-on was always a great event.

“We weren’t sure how many people were going to show up because of the weather but we were pleasantly surprised,” he added.

“It was a great crown and hopefully we can raise a lot of money for some good causes again this year.”

Other entertainment is planned for the Christmas period including the Citrus Singers choir on Wednesday 14 and the BitterSweet Harmony and Care Free Choir from 4-5pm on Sunday 18.

On Christmas Eve, there will be mulled wine, mince pies, sausage rolls, and sweets in return for a donation.

Father Christmas is also expected to make an appearance in between his Christmas Eve deliveries.

Those wanting to see the lights are asked to park away from Runton Road and to walk up to see the lights. They are also asked to make sure they are not blocking access to driveways.

Visit facebook.com/RuntonRoadChristmasLights