This year's big Christmas lights switch-on in Maryport has been hailed as 'the best yet'.

Youngsters were involved as the town got into the festive spirit on Saturday.

The highlight for many youngsters was the visit to Santa's grotto with the big man handing out large bag of goodies to some excited little faces.

Mayor Peter Kendall suggested this was the best switch-on yet and many agreed with him.

Rachel McManus said her daughter Isabella, 4, was delighted with her visit to Santa while Sofia Abernethy, 6, confided that she had asked Santa for a mermaid's tail because she had always wanted to be a mermaid.

There was free face painting and tattoos and craft sessions in the town hall where children made Christmas trees, festive umbrellas and finger puppets.

On the outside stage there was a feast of entertainment from Netherhall, Maryport, Flimby and Netherton schools.

And Maryport Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society performed selections from their forthcoming production of Nativity the Musical. Children and adults alike were entertained by Imagination Parties character and by Jason the Juggler.

A special mention must go to Curtis Wright, 13, whose keyboard skills ensured that everyone got into the festive spirit before nine children helped switch on the town's Christmas lights, led by Mr Kendall.

The Labour Club was used for Santa's Grotto and for charity stalls.

Julie Lowden of Flimby was persuaded to sell her handmade Christmas wreaths, saying: "I have never made them for anyone but friends and family before. This was wonderful, better than I ever expected."