CHRISTMAS celebrations are kicking off in Braintree on Sunday with the official Christmas Lights Switch-On and Christmas Fayre.

With festivities running throughout the day, the town is set to kick off the season in style with market stalls, entertainment and the odd celebrity appearance for good measure.

A Italian continental market and an Ale Trail with many local pubs taking part will run throughout the day, flash dances held around the town by the Danielle Emily Studios.

A Christmas market will run in the Town Hall where there will also be a Santa's grotto and storytelling sessions. 

A school choir singing competition between around six schools will be taking place and Funky Voices will also be performing.

The Christmas Fayre will run between 11am and 5pm.

10p parking will be available in all council car parks and the town’s Christmas lights will be switched on at 4.30pm.