HUNDREDS gathered last night to watch the city’s Christmas lights being turned on.

Brighton’s beloved display was met with joy from residents young and old who flooded East Street to listen to seasonal songs before the big unveiling.

Suzie Waters and her partner Ben Ranger, from Hove, took their young children Zach, three, and eight-year-old Phoebe along for the fun.

It was the whole family’s first time there.

Suzie said: “It’s so lovely for the kids. They were really excited about it and couldn’t wait to come.

“The lights turning on means Christmas is starting for us. It’s a nice family event.”

Young Phoebe thinks the lights are all part of the festive season.

She said: “I like the entertainment and the excitement of the lights going on.

“I love the Christmas decorations too.”

The lights adorn the city centre, with the words “peace” and “love” hanging at the bottom of North Street.

There is also a golden canopy of lights in the Lanes.

Southern Water is the sponsor of the decorations, while the £75,000 display is paid for by Brilliant Brighton, an organisation made up of 517 businesses from around the city.

They have rallied for the past decade to keep the tradition going.

Juice 107.2 FM and Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice helped organise last night’s event, which included a stage for choirs to perform Christmas hits such as Winter Wonderland.

Gail Wainwright, from Hove, was in East Street with her daughter and friends.

The 66-year-old said: “It’s great to see people of all ages singing and having fun together.

“We’re a community and this is what it’s all about. I love it.”

She added: “It’s a bit like when Albion were promoted last season.

“Everyone came into town with their families and it was lovely.”

Brighton’s Gogglebox sensations Chris Butland-Steed and Stephen Webb led the countdown and unveiled the display, taking over from actor Steve Coogan, who did the honours last year.