RESIDENTS flocked to Dovercourt town centre to enjoy a dazzling Christmas lights switch on and a special late-night shopping event.

The festivities took place on Saturday, December 3, and activities for all ages were available for attendees to enjoy.

The lights were switched on at 6.45pm by town mayor Ivan Henderson followed by a proclamation by Harwich town crier Richard Bench.

Sally Goff, Harwich and Dovercourt Partnership’s town centre manager, said: “We are absolutely delighted that so many people could attend.

“It was a good turnout despite it being one of the coldest days of the year, the cost of living crisis and the world cup matches.”

Dovercourt Street Market is part of the partnership and supported the light switch-on.

Harwich Town Council also donated a tree which was placed outside Kingsway Hall and the hall itself hosted a crafts stall and a Santa’s grotto.

The event fell on Small Business Saturday, which is on the first Saturday of December.

Sally added: “The event was a great way to kick start everybody’s Christmas in Dovercourt.

“Our aim is to support the local traders and get more people in town to shop locally, and I think Saturday contributed to that.”

Traders and businesses sold their various wares, ranging from tasty homemade gin to handmade crafts suitable for children.

Mr Henderson said: “It was nice to have some normalcy and bring the town together for the festive season.

“Events like these don’t happen overnight, there’s an awful lot of organisation throughout the year so credit to the organisers Sally Goff and the partnership, the local shops who stayed open, stall holders and Kingsway Hall.”

Fundraising also took place with all proceeds going to the Fourth Dovercourt Sea Scout Group.

Mr Henderson was also on stage with dance group Ballroom Business and Harwich and Dovercourt Rotary brought along its Santa sleigh to raise money and collect gifts.

The next event in the town centre will be the High Street carol service on Friday, December 16.