FESTIVE fanatics lined a New Forest street to witness the switching on of a popular set of Christmas Lights.

The event at Byron Road in New Milton has become a staple of the festive calendar in the local area.

This year's special guests who were on hand to help with the switch-on on Sunday evening included Harry Redknapp, Shaine Singer, who is known for his appearance on television show Undateables, and ITV Meridian weather presenter Holly Green.

Mr Redknapp fielded questions from members of the crowd, which filled the residential road as far as the eye could see.

The former AFC Bournemouth, Southampton, Portsmouth and Tottenham manager joked that he hopes to one day manage New Milton Town.

The event, which has been running for the past 13 years, has gained international coverage in years gone by and even featured in a Cadbury's Christmas television advert.

Proceedings got underway from 4pm with live music and entertainment, before the switch-on at 6pm and the arrival of Santa who handed out gift bags to children.

After the big switch-on, Mr Singer took to the stage to deliver a special Christmas poem he had written on the day of the event.

Since starting the gatherings at Byron Road more than £55,000 has been raised for charitable causes.

This year's spectacular is in aid of Community First Responders and The Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy.

Organiser Jed Hollyoake said: "It was a brilliant event with a superb turnout, one of the best turnouts.

"Everyone got supplied with mulled wine, hot chocolate and other refreshments.

"Apart from all the fun and the look on everyone's faces, the charities are the reason we do it.

"It was also a surprise to have a number of A list celebrities there as well."

The lights stay on until January 2 with spontaneous appearances from Santa Claus and his elves.