HUNDREDS of people braved the rain to attend the switch-on of Burnham-on-Sea's Christmas lights after a day of entertainment in the town.

Burnham Retail and the Chamber of Trade & Commerce organised the Winter Warmer programme on Saturday to mark the start of the festive season.

The lights were switched on by Maxine and Nick Bashford, who were chosen in recognition of their work at a local food bank.

The switch-on followed eight hours of festive entertainment in the town, ranging from live music and magic to a fire show.

Former X Factor contestant Kezia Povey, who is from Weston-super-Mare, then performed some Christmas hits on the Victoria Street stage. 

The night ended with a lantern parade and Christmas carols with the Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge Town Band.

A Chamber of Trade & Commerce spokesperson said: “Thanks for the backing of everyone who attended and supported Saturday’s Christmas lights switch-on event – it was a wonderful day despite the wet weather!

“A great start to Burnham town centre’s festive celebrations!”