Singing superstar Gareth Gates was joined by Olympic hero Adam Gemili and EastEnders star Steve McFadden for this year’s Christmas lights.

As the plunger was pushed, the air turned silver with snowflakes that fluttered into the huge crowds that had turned out to watch the spectacle.

The festive fun in the town began just after 2pm with a visit by Adam Gemili before Gareth Gates made his way on stage to lead the crowds in a Christmas sing-a-long.

Former Dartford Grammar School pupil Adam was presented with a Dartfordian award by council leader Jeremy Kite for his performances during the Olympics.

Gareth Gates performed songs including Spirit in the Sky, Don’t Stop Me Now and his own single Anyone of Us.

The stars of this year’s pantomime, including Steve McFadden - who is leading the magical adventure as Abanazar, then joined host Adam Hoffman for the count down.

Also on stage were Nicola Meehan, who plays the Princess, and Luke Newton, who plays Aladdin.

For more pictures, see this week's Dartford Messenger.