POOLE was all lit up ready for the festive season in a packed Falkland Square on Thursday evening.

Hundreds of people turned out for the switch-on ceremony, conducted by mayor Lindsay Wilson assisted by the cast of Lighthouse panto Cinderella, and for sights and events along the High Street and down on the Quayside.

There were chuckles a-plenty when all lights came on at 5.30pm apart from the central Christmas tree, which 'required' a second countdown and a wave of a magic wand by Fairy Godmother Lucy Kay, from Britain's Got Talent.

There was music and a selection of refreshments for revellers to enjoy in the meantime.

Then at 6pm there was a fireworks display from a cordoned off area within the high street, which drew a big crowd.

Down on the quayside there was live music and a water fountain laser show, as well as music courtesy of the Canford Cliffs community choir.

The switch-on marks the start of the town's Christmas Extravaganza, organised by Poole BID (Business Improvement District), which continues until Sunday.

Tomorrow, youngsters will be able to send letters to Santa at Poole Museum between 11am and 3pm, and there will be laser shows at Kingland Crescent and Poole Quay, as well as more live music in the evening.

Acts include a Katy Perry tribute, Matt Black and Xander & The Keys.

Over the weekend there will be a Christmas market at Poole Quay stocking all manner of goods for those seeking out a distinctive gift, and on Sunday a children's fancy dress competition.

But the main event remains Sunday's Santa Parade.

The man himself, old St Nick, will arrive on a City Cruises boat at Poole Quay at 11am on Sunday, before parading through the town on his festive train, accompanied by, in their second appearance of the festival, the mayor and the stars of Cinderella.

They will be joined by Poole Sea Cadets, performers from Shining Bright Like a Star, Bournemouth Carnival Band and fancy dress competition entrants.

At 12.30pm Santa's Grotto opens in the Quayside Emporium, and there will be music on the Quay from Rising Voices Choir.