Families’ festive fun at Diss Christmas lights switch-on

Smiles, laughter and festivities could be seen at Diss's Christmas light switch-on as the event saw hundreds of families fill the town.

The streets of Diss were filled with bright lights, as families from in and around the town attended its popular Christmas event.

Special guests took to the stage in the Market place, including Father Christmas and the cast of this year's Corn Hall panto Robin Hood, who sang 'Let it Snow' and 'Santa Claus is coming to town' before the main event.

Diss Mayor Sonia Browne also took the opportunity to say a few words. She said: "It is lovely to see everybody here you are all smiling, there is so much to see and do.

"I just wish you all a very merry Christmas filled with peace love and happiness."

Children of all ages enjoyed the brightly lit vintage fire engine from Bressingham Stream Museum, queuing up to have their photos taken alongside it.

Donna and Rob Mace and their two children, from Diss, have been coming to the town's Christmas light switch-on for the last four years. Mrs Mace said: "We are from Diss and we come every year, but it has been a lot busier this year.

"It's a nice feeling everyone being together, it's a small town and you see everyone you know it's great."

The grand lights switch-on in the Market Place was the highlight of a day of festive fun including Christmas shopping and entertainment starting from early afternoon.

Live music filled the streets, which saw families dancing and singing to performances from Joe Aiken, Groovapolitan, Ramblers Celidh Band and Ellen Fairey, along with Park Radio, which hosted the event and played festive tunes.

Margaret Stace, from Diss, said: "We love it. I have come this year but the kids come every year. We love the lights and seeing Santa.

"It brings everybody together and you see Diss full of people enjoying themselves its brilliant."

And if they were not near the stage enjoying the entertainment, families were enjoying seasonal food and drink that warmed them up during the cold weather. After the Christmas light switch-on, mayor Sonia Browne said: "It has been a great event and as my first time as mayor. I always love being around the community, having a dance and sing and talking with them.

"People are having fun and enjoying themselves. This year it is very busy."