BRIGHTON’S festive lights were switched on last night and will now spread Love, and Peace and Twinkle across the city centre.

Cbeebies presenter Sid Sloane led the countdown with Hove boy Jake Heal, 15, who has raised more than £4,000 for the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity.

There was even fake snow and Father Christmas was on the scene.

The Argus:

Gavin Stewart from organisers Brilliant Brighton said: “It’s been an amazing evening and great to see so many people coming down tonight.

“Thank you to the businesses who give the money each year, without them this couldn’t happen.”

The lights are paid for by 517 businesses who give £75,000 yearly for the spectacle.

The Argus:

Attendees were treated to entertainment, giveaways and Christmas carols before the big switch on at 6.25pm.

Brighton resident Maria Andarad and her daughter Chloe, 3, were among the crowd.

“We came to break the routine and come with the kids.

“But I have to admit I’m feeling a little bit Christmassy."

The Argus:

Father Christmas was also in attendance to spread some festive joy with the partygoers - young and old.

He said: “It is never too early for people to have Christmas joy in their hearts and tonight has been a lovely and wonderful evening.

“I am looking forward to delivering the presents of Argus readers on December 25, that is if they have been behaving.”