ONE of the biggest days in the Tilbury calendar is here.

Friday 6 December will see the town's annual Christmas lights switch on, with live performances in civic square, a fun fair and the arrival of Father Christmas.

The fun will start at 4.30pm when Santa and his pixies arrive in Civic Square to go to his Magical Grotto in the Sunshine Centre. It's £1.50 per child to visit him there and all children receive a gift.

The stage will feature local children singing and dancing to all your favourite Christmas songs.

The lights switch on is at 6pm and compere for the evening will be local community stalwart Les Morgan.

Les said: "Thanks to EMR, Tilbury Hub, Thurrock Council, Port of Tilbury, Grays Public Purposes and Recreational Charity and everyone for their kind donations to make the Tilbury Lights happen! Come along for a fun evening."