Southend Christmas switch on event lights up the city

The event, organised by Southend's Business Improvement District (BID), took place on Saturday and saw a day packed with events which led up to the big switch-on at 6pm.

There were music performances from groups such as the Buskerteers Choir, The Southend Irish Association Ceili Band and The Ironworks Additional Needs performance group.

Crowd - many gathered to watch the entertainment (Image: Julie Ann) Choir - the Busketeers choir look delighted to be a part of the switch on (Image: Julie Ann)

There were also musicians busking in the High Street with festive tunes, Christmas storytelling, Santa's grotto and children's rides to enjoy on the day.

The day’s entertainment culminated in a lively Christmas sing-along with The Melvin Beddow Big Band.

Southend mayor Ron Woodley was joined on stage by panto stars from The Cliffs Pavilion’s Jack and The Beanstalk as well as Southend’s beloved local hero, Salvo the Clown, to switch on the lights.

Packed - many people roaming the streets at the switch on (Image: Julie Ann) Together - residents celebrate the switch on (Image: GAZ DE VERE) Salvo has been entertaining children and families in the High Street for 27 years by handing out balloons and performing.

The switch-on was seen as his big "final farewell", being selected by Southend’s BID as a thank-you for the years he has spent dedicated to the city.

Farewell - Salvo at the switch-on (Image: Gaz de Vere) Southend councillor responsible for culture, tourism and business, Matt Dent, said: “It was fantastic so many people come out to see the switch on.

“It was brilliant in particular to see Salvo switch on the lights after his years of service and it was so fitting that he got the honour of doing the switch-on.

“That was probably my favourite part of the night but it was also great to see so many families out having a good night and enjoying themselves.

“Southend BID did such a great job.”

Ready - Salvo on stage for the switch on (Image: GAZ DE VERE) Stage - Kate West (Image: GAZ DE VERE) George Bejko-Cowlbeck, chair of Southend City BID added: 'What a fantastic start to the festive season!

"A huge well done to not only our events team and all involved, but most importantly to Salvo."

Christmas cheer was also felt elsewhere in south Essex as Basildon also held is Christmas switch-on event.

Activities and entertainment was enjoyed across the town centre, including rides, Santa's grotto, food stalls, festive mini-golf, and the famous Bavarian Market with German sausages and mulled wine on offer.