Crowds flocked to the town centre for a day celebrating the start of the Christmas countdown and to see the festive lights switched on.

Christmas markets, music and entertainment made the day memorable for the residents who turned out for the day long event on Sunday which had plenty to see and do.

The two markets, including the Great Market selling items ranging from toys to jewellery to gourmet burgers, took over the High Street and Braintree Town Hall, while Santa’s Grotto moved into George Yard.

Face painting and sand art, where people could produce jewellery, crafts and pictures, were available to town visitors and music was provided by an array of talent, including Heart FM’s Chris Brooks and the Beckers Green School Choir.

Masclans Band travelled from Barcelona to play their music, influenced by the Beatles and Bob Dylan, at the event.