Actor Maureen Lipman and children’s TV presenter Chris Jarvis entertained crowds at this year's packed Christmas lights switch-on in Richmond High Street.

Richmond Riverside was lined with 58 festive stalls, reindeer, fancy dress and craft markets on Friday, November 25.

Santa Claus himself was in attendance and the town illuminated at 6pm at the switch-on, described as “hugely popular” by Richmond Council.

This year's event was organised by the Richmond Business Retail Association and the council - which contributed more than £30,000 for Christmas light displays across the borough.

Richmond Council is also covering the costs of road closures for a number of events taking place during the lead up to Christmas.

Richmond mayor, Councillor David Linnette, said: "Christmas has arrived in Richmond and we all enjoyed another hugely popular lights switch-on in Richmond High Street.

“I would like to say a special thanks to our local business community for working in partnership with the Council to make our villages sparkle over the festive period.

"It is also a good opportunity to call on our residents to support our independent businesses and local economy by shopping locally for their festive gifts.

“There's a range of fantastic festive discount offers exclusively available on the Richmond Card."