CHRISTMAS season was launched in style in Christchurch as an annual festive celebration took over the town.

The Christchurch Christmas Festival drew hundreds to the town centre for a day of fun and entertainment for all the family.

High Street was taken over by a Christmas Market throughout the day, while there were real reindeer in Saxon Square.

In the afternoon Santa's parade of light cascaded through the town centre before the highlight of the event with ITV Meridan's Fred Dinenage switching on the lights from the Mayor's Parlour.

There was also Santa's grotto, an alpine bar and musical entertainment. The event was put on by volunteers with support from businesses, Christchurch Chamber of Trade and Christchurch Borough Council.