Crowds gathered to celebrate a festive tradition in a north Essex town.

Families flocked to Ha’penny Pier in Harwich for the second-ever Christmas tree lights switch-on, which took place on Wednesday and was organised by Harwich Haven Authority (HHA).

Helen Rudd, strategy and partnerships director at HHA, said: "The countdown to Christmas is now officially on after an amazing evening at the historic Ha’penny Pier.

"The performances were fabulous – and watching the lights switch-on really warmed our festive cockles.

"A big thanks also goes to the Harwich Society for sharing their space during the event, the LV18 Radio Mi Amigo for providing equipment and the team at Deck 1853 for supplying us all with some delicious mince pies and hot drinks."

The event featured performances from the H

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