With the sound of a school choir singing and the delicious smell of warm doughnuts wafting through air, it was certainly a delight to be in the centre of Downham Market.

Eastern Daily Press: The Santa Run, Downham Market. Picture: Ian BurtThe Santa Run, Downham Market. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant)

From 2pm, the town square was packed with hundreds of people who had come to see the Christmas lights switch on event.

In the lead up to the switch-on at 4.30pm, people browsed through stalls, listened to the sounds of the Hilgay Silver Band and naturally, excited children went to see Santa in his grotto.

The youngsters were also delighted that Olaf from the ever-popular Frozen film made an appearance on stage.

Downham Market Mayor, John Doyle, said he was delighted with the turn-out.

He said: 'The children love Olaf and we had an excellent Santa run with about 80 runners. Last year was as good as this year so I am pleased we are keeping up the standard. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves and a lot of shops are open this year.'

Downham Market resident Lucy Chase brought her two-year-old daughter Devon to the festive event.

She said: 'I love all this sort of thing, and my daughter can't wait to see Olaf. I think this is good for the town - but I do come here every year.'

Another resident, Andrew Pike said that he too thinks the event is nice for children.

He said: 'I have brought mine up here and they really enjoy it. It's nice for the town to get together and get into the Christmas spirit. Not many places get to do things like this.'

Two children, Maddy and Hayden Kent, got to throw the switch as a prize for winning the Tesco shop witch hunt which lit the town up with new stunning LED lights.

Are you impressed with the lights? Email natalie.copeland@archant.co.uk.