THE switch on of lights on Grays town centre's Christmas tree will take place at 5pm on Monday, 9 December.

Cllr Sue Shinnick, Deputy Mayor of Thurrock, said: "I am really looking forward playing my part in helping to bring the joy of Christmas to Grays High Street by switching the Christmas tree lights on this year.

"I would especially like to thank DP World London Gateway who have supplied the tree this year. It is great that we have been able to work with them to support Christmas in Grays Town Centre.

"Thurrock has such a fantastic range of local shops and businesses and I hope that as many people as possible will support them by shopping locally this Christmas.

"The event will be a colourful mixture of Christmas music, singing, and exciting special guests to help kick-off the festive season in Grays."