The date has been announced for the switching-on of Christmas lights in Loughton.

This year's ceremony to turn on the new lights, which this year will consist of 31 christmas trees attached to street lights, will take place at St Mary's Church in High Road Loughton.

A carol concert performed by local primary school will start at 4pm before former The Only Way is Essex star, Billi Mucklow flicks the switch.

Revellers will be treated to a Christmas Forest and Santas Grotto as well as late night shopping which will see local shops offering discounts until 8pm.

The event will also mark the opening of a Christmas craft market and an ice rink.