DESPITE Storm Bert fears, George Yard Shopping Centre transformed into a winter wonderland to host its Christmas lights switch on.

After the sad news of the Braintree Christmas market being cancelled due to weather worries, and the event at the Boars Head suffering the same fate, George Yard kept the Christmas spirit going.

The event kicked off at 1pm and throughout the afternoon saw performances from Phina Dance and Circus, the cast of The Institute’s production of Dick Whittington and Taylor’s Dance Company.

There were even appearances of Santa Claus and characters Elsa and Anna from Frozen.

Visitors also enjoyed face painting, live music, and dazzling walkabout acts as the night drew in ahead of the light switch-on.

Fabulous - The crowds enjoyed dazzling performances and sparkling Christmas lights Fabulous - The crowds enjoyed dazzling performances and sparkling Christmas lights (Image: George Yard Shopping Centre) At 5.30pm, the crowd gathered around the bandstand and counted down excitedly to the moment the big switch was flipped and a sparkling array of festive lights lit up the shopping centre.

Dan Foley, centre manager of George Yard Shopping Centre, said: "We were really pleased to be able to carry out our Light Switch On, in spite of Storm Bert approaching.

“I would like to extend a big thank you to all of our acts, particularly Phina Dance and Circus, Taylor's Dance company and the fabulous cast of this year's Pantomime Dick Whittington - and of course to all our shoppers and families who came along to support and see the start of Christmas.

“Due to the risk of high winds - we had to postpone our giant Snow Globe, which will return on Saturday, December 21.

“We hope everyone had a good time and look forward to welcoming you all back to George Yard at some point, this festive period.”