THE countdown has begun for this year's Christmas Lights Switch-On in Weston.

The "bumper festive occasion" will take place this Saturday (December 2) from 4.30pm onwards.

The lights will be switched on between 5pm and 5.30pm by the mayor of Weston, Cllr Ciaran Cronnelly.

Posting on Facebook, a spokesperson from Visit Weston-super-Mare said: "The official Weston-super-Mare Christmas Lights Switch On will be taking place in the Italian Gardens this Saturday December 2 from 4.30pm onwards. It promises to be a bumper festive occasion!

"There will be a lantern procession with local children and special performances and appearances from Pauline Quirke Academy, the cast of The Blakehay Theatre’s Panto, and traditional favourites from Weston Brass.

"Mince pies will be available and Santa will be on hand to meet and greet all of the well-behaved children.

"The lights will be switched on between 5pm and 5.30pm by the Mayor, Cllr Ciaran Cronnelly, the winner of the Christmas card competition, and Santa himself.

"Over 100 local producers will form the eat:Weston Christmas edition from 10am in both the Italian Gardens and Winter Gardens.

"The Sovereign will be offering FREE parking from 3pm (please note normal tariffs apply to vehicles arriving prior to 3pm.)

"It’s also Small Business Saturday UK so it’s the perfect time to get some Christmas shopping done and support our businesses.

"Join us and Weston-super-Mare Town Council this year as we light up our town and get into the festive spirit. We look forward to seeing you there!"

Those that attend the switch-on are also encouraged to donate to charity if possible. There will be a donation station available at the Winter Gardens Pavilion, the proceeds of which will help support Weston Foodbank.

The mayor of Weston added: "This Saturday (December 2) as part of eat Festivals and the Christmas Light Switch-on WsM Foodbank will have a donation station within the Winter Gardens Pavilion, Weston-super-Mare between 11am-5.30pm.

"Residents are encouraged if you wish to donate food please head to the Winter Gardens between 11am-5.30pm on December 2 and visit the Weston-super-Mare Town Council stall where the foodbank donation station will be."