Families packed into the town centre on Thursday evening to see Croydon's young mayor switch on the Christmas lights.

Croydon Business Improvement District (BID) partnered with Centrale and Whitgift Shopping Centres to provide an afternoon of entertainment before young mayor William Awomoyi and deputy youth mayor Shea Williams kick-started the Christmas celebrations.

Two hours of magic tricks, comedy, dancing and singing drew a crowd to the town centre, as local acts including Little Monkies, Love 2 Dance and Popchoir performed before the switching on the lights at 6.30pm.

Matthew Sims, Chief Executive of Croydon BID, said: “For many, the festive season is a moment to celebrate, spend time with family and friends, have fun and enjoy the many activities taking place – starting right here in Croydon.

"The Christmas Launch Night heralded the start of our six week programme with the switching on of our town centre lights across 15 of our major streets, funded by our business community.

“I am truly excited by the array of events and activities taking place this Christmas within the town centre and beyond as we present a six week programme of festivities to get everyone in the mood.

"So whatever your age or tastes, all I ask is that you join us for a little magic this Christmas and support our business community, night and day.”

With the festive season underway, Croydon BID is preparing for the launch of its Christmas Market which will open in North End on Thursday November 22.

The market will run daily from 10am – 6pm until Sunday December 9.