Crowds gathered to celebrate their town’s cavalcade of lights and annual parade and Christmas light switch on.

Father Christmas joined Town Mayor Antony Watts joined residents out Waltham Abbey Town Hall on Highbridge Street to kick off the festive event on Friday, November 29.

The duo counted down with spectators as the festive lights were officially lit, with Santa then greeting youngsters by his sleigh.

Leverton Primary School on Honey Lane created a sweet-themed design for their float with students and parents holding lollipop balloons.

Disney Princesses including Elsa, Anna, Belle and Rapunzel made a surprise appearance during the parade much to the delight of several spectators.

Waltham Abbey Scouts, Waltham Abbey Fire Station and A.I.M. Academy of Dance also took part as Christmas music played throughout the procession.