Thousands of people gathered in towns around the county as Christmas lights were switched on.

In Bicester, singers and dancers from the Courtyard Youth Arts Centre, Launton Road, performed on the main stage in the Market Square.

The festive atmosphere continued as a candlelight procession made up of primary school children, led by Santa on a sleigh, made its way from Bicester Village to the Square.

In Sheep Street, charity stalls and a farmers market did a brisk trade, and people had the chance to enjoy fairground rides and say 'hello' to Father Christmas.

Organiser believe about 9,000 people attended the event beating last year's total by about 1,000.

Mayor Diana Edwards said: "The children behaved beautifully and there was a nice community spirit in the crowds."

The rain held off for five-year-old Matthew Churchill, who was given the honour of pressing the button to light up the town after winning a Shining Star competition.

Matthew, of Willow Drive, Southwold, raised £3,500 for the special baby care unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, by forgoing presents on his fifth birthday.