CROWDS flocked to the city’s landmark hotel to watch their big Christmas light switch-on.

More than 200 guests and visitors gathered in front of The Grand’s new facade to wait for the building to dazzle on Wednesday evening.

Mulled wine, hot chocolate and mice pies were served to all, and those attending were given the opportunity to buy a Christmas wish for one pound which they could hang on the grand staircase in the hotel.

All the proceeds of the evening went towards three different Brighton-based charities; The Rockinghorse, a children’s charity, The Clocktower Sanctuary for the homeless and Team Domenica for adults with learning disabilities.

Nineteen-month-old Poppy Elsmore from Worthing was chosen to be the one to turn on The Grand’s Christmas lights at 6pm on the dot with the help of her four-year old sister, Grace. Poppy’s father Luke, 28, said: “Poppy was looked after so well by members of the Rockinghorse charity when she was in hospital for a year with liver failure and gastroschisis. It’s so special that she was chosen to be the one to wow everyone and turn on the lights.”

“It’s been an absolute pleasure coming here. Just a year ago Poppy was very sick and my partner, Chloe, and I were worried she wouldn’t make it so it’s been such a special evening for us to see her take part in this. It has certainly been an night that we won’t forget.”

The evening included Christmas songs sung by Westdene Primary School for parents and guests to enjoy.

Andrew Mosley, general manager at The Grand, said: “This has just been a wonderful event to trigger the start of our Christmas events. We have a lot coming up and this has been a great one to kick it off.

“It has been lovely welcoming everyone from guests to residents in the city to join in the start of our Christmas celebrations. What has been particularly special about our Christmas light switch-on has been teaming up with charities to raise money for good causes.”

Andrew said now that the lights are on, if you look closely at the windows of the first floor of The Grand between 4.30pm and 8pm then you might be in luck and spot Father Christmas.