Thousands turned out in Barking to see the town's Christmas lights turned on.

A range of festive entertainment took place including carol singing, arts and crafts, dance performances, magic shows, a Christmas singalong whilst real reindeer made an appearance.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Dhol drummers on stageDhol drummers on stage (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

The Barking Mad about Christmas events were held on Saturday, December 4, with 3,000 people there to witness the big switch-on.

Barking and Dagenham Post: A number of events were held during the day's festivities in Barking town centreA number of events were held during the day's festivities in Barking town centre (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

The lights were illuminated by deputy council leader Saima Ashraf, who said: “Christmas has arrived in Barking and Dagenham and it was such a wonderful sight to see thousands of residents bring some Christmas cheer to the borough.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Cllr Saima Ashraf addresses the crowdsCllr Saima Ashraf addresses the crowds (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

"I’m delighted Mad about Christmas was able to return after last year and everyone seemed to have lots of fun and got into the festive spirit.”

There were holly wreath making workshops and 500 children got to meet Santa in his grotto on the day.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Five-hundred children visited Santa's grotto during the dayFive-hundred children visited Santa's grotto during the day (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

An elf hunt also took place around the town centre and market.