The wet weather sweeping Norfolk wasn't enough to stop the town of Reepham from coming together to celebrate the start of Christmas with their much anticipated Festival of Light.

Eastern Daily Press: Chairman of the Festival of Light team Brenda Gostling. Picture: Ian BurtChairman of the Festival of Light team Brenda Gostling. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

The annual event took place on Thursday night with the opening of stalls in the market place from 4.30pm, each selling a range festive gifts and snacks.

Once the celebrations were underway the main events began with a group of children parading through town carrying glowing lanterns.

Father Christmas arrived soon after to turn on the town's Christmas tree lights accompanied by a performance from the children's choir from Reepham Primary School.

Residents continued the evening by meeting Santa in his grotto, basking in snow blasted from snow machines and taking part in a unique space hopper disco.

Eastern Daily Press: The lantern parade at the Reepham Festival of Light. Picture: Ian BurtThe lantern parade at the Reepham Festival of Light. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

It all took place against the backdrop of carols from the Christmas choir and music from Reepham High School Band.

Eastern Daily Press: Husband and wife, Rev Keith Rengert and Rev Helen Rengert in the lantern parade. Picture: Ian BurtHusband and wife, Rev Keith Rengert and Rev Helen Rengert in the lantern parade. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

Eastern Daily Press: Charlie Gould (8) in the lantern parade. Picture: Ian BurtCharlie Gould (8) in the lantern parade. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

Eastern Daily Press: Reepham Garden Club member Ricky Stevenson selling mistletoe in aid of Marie Curie. Picture: Ian BurtReepham Garden Club member Ricky Stevenson selling mistletoe in aid of Marie Curie. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)

Eastern Daily Press: Monet Maddox (7) with her Christmas lantern. Picture: Ian BurtMonet Maddox (7) with her Christmas lantern. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2017)