THOUSANDS of Dorset residents - naughty and nice alike - turned out for Christmas events across the county this weekend.

There were a number of light switch-ons, with big crowds gathering in towns including Swanage and Wimborne.

Popstar and panto actress Rachel Stevens and Santa Claus visited Christchurch for the town's Christmas festival on Saturday.

The event began with a market in the morning before live reindeer were herded into Saxon Square during the early afternoon. Visitors then joined a parade through the town.

Christchurch mayor Councillor Nick Geary presented John Batchelor with a special plaque to mark 40 years of being Santa.

Cllr Geary said: "It was a fantastic event.

"There must have been thousands of people there throughout the day and the Priory had more than 1,000 people through for their Christmas Market.

"The Christmas committee did an outstanding job.

"It was a magical day and a true Christmas spectacular."

Carollers serenaded visitors to Southbourne on Saturday.

One visitor, Mark Porter, told the Daily Echo: "I've come all the way from Reading for this."

Pam Alderman said: “We’ve had a mulled wine and mince pie, what more could you want?

"There’s a really nice and happy vibe tonight, and there are so many people around."

Members of the Wimborne Militia fired their rifles on the town's Minster Green as dusk fell. The unusual tradition concluded a day of live performances by ukelele players, a brass band, choirs and dancers before the lights were turned on at 4.30pm.

There was also a day of live music, as well as amusements and rides, at Ferndown's light switch-on. The town has been bedecked with twinkling lights for the festive season.

Swanage was the last town to be lit up as the annual illuminations event took place. Lorna Haines, who raised money for the town's skate park, will be pressing the button.