Thousands of people have turned out to enjoy Christmas light switch on events across north and west Cumbria.

This evening the streets of Brampton, Egremont and Wigton have all been illuminated in fun-filled family celebrations.

Camels plodded through Brampton before David Doran, six, and younger brother Michael, five, flicked the switch, while X Factor finalist Andrea Faustini performed the honours in Wigton.

Both towns boasted events for all the family, with the snow machine in Wigton proving a firm favourite.

Megan Troughton, 27, of Edmondson Close, Brampton, said: "I've come every year and the lights are as spectacular as ever. The highlight is the camels."

She said it was nice to see someone from the community turn on the Brampton lights.

"I think it means more," she added. "I think it's lovely that all the shops come out as well and it's getting better every year."

Egremont came to life this afternoon with the arrival of Christmas Wonderland - complete with mobile zoo.

An array of animals included meerkats and tarantulas joined superheroes to bring festive cheer to Main Street.

Last night saw people turn out in their hundreds for the third annual Seaton switch on event, while Maryport celebrated its most successgul festive event to date.

Maryport mayor Linda Radcliffe switched on the lights in front of a crowd that stretched down Senhouse Street, the main shopping street in town.

She was helped by Jack Gibson, the two-year- old who has cancer and Lillie-Mae Jackson, 6, who lost both legs and an arm to meningitis when just weeks old.

Don't miss the News & Star for pictures from all the events.