A row has broken out over the Gorleston Christmas lights switch-on. For the past three years, community station Harbour Radio has hosted the live entertainment for the ceremony in the town's High Street.

However that arrangement came to an 'abrupt end' on Monday, and with less than a week to go internet-based station Coastal Radio has taken up the mantle instead.

Harbour Radio said in a statement: 'We are sorry to announce that our association with the Gorleston light switch-on has come to an abrupt end.

'Having delivered the live entertainment at the Gorleston light switch on since 2013, and having put together a line up of entertainers and a VIP guest to switch on the lights this year, Harbour is now handing over all responsibility for the event back to the Gorleston Traders Association.'

They added: 'We wish them all the best with the event this year.'

Vice chairman of the Gorleston Traders Association, Kevin Huggins, said he looked for a new live entertainment host after an issue with the itinerary offered by Harbour.

Managing director of Coastal Radio, Rob George, aka Simon Jones, said his station was rushed for time but he was looking forward to it.

Gorleston Paralympian Jessica Jane Applegate, joined by the mayor of Great Yarmouth, Cllr Malcolm Bird, will switch on the lights at this year's event with an expected crowd of about 5,000 people.

There will still be music, a climbing wall, rides and stalls from noon and the successful ice rink will make its return on the crossroads near to the library.

Children can meet Santa at his grotto which will once again be placed inside of Fusion Hair Consultants in High Street.

Mr Huggins said the event is a great opportunity for traders to show off what they do to both their regulars and to those who normally would not come across them.

The Gorleston Christmas lights switch on will take place on Sunday, November 27. The switch-on will take place at 5pm, before a fireworks display at 6pm.

nSee page 14 for details of the Great Yarmouth Christmas lights switch on