THOUSANDS of people lined the banks of the River Usk in Newport this evening to see this year's Christmas lights switched on.

Mayor of Newport Matthew Evans had the honour of kicking off the festive celebrations by illuminating the city.

An impressive firework display then lit up the sky bringing the evening to a close.

Entertainment included dance school Defying Gravity and the Vanessa Clarke School of Dance who performed along to classic Christmas hits in festive jumpers.

Jazz band Wonderbrass and the cast of this year's Riverfront Theatre panto Dick Whittington also helped to warm up the crowds.

Mayor Matthew Evans said: "It's a great privilege and an honour. I think we're blessed with the weather. It's a fantastic atmosphere and things are really looking up for the city.

"Hopefully all of the people here tonight will be supporting the local traders within the city."

Children also had the chance to meet Father Christmas and Bjorn the polar bear.

A snow globe outside the Riverfront also provided a festive photo opportunity for families.

Newport mum Jennifer Duggan who was at the event with her four-year-old daughter Jessica said they were feeling festive as they had been to Cwmbran's switch on the day before as well.

She said: "We loved the polar bear. It's a great event because it's so cheap and family friendly."

Jessica said it was the "best day ever" and that she was looking forward to the fireworks. Predicting the weather, she added that she was also looking forward to the snow.

Earlier in the year, the Argus reported that lights switch on celebration was saved after a planned cut by Newport City Council was scrapped.

Rogerstone councillor Chris Evans, who was enjoying the festivities, said: "It's absolutely brilliant to see so many people here.

"I spoke to protect it and it was the right thing to do. This is Newport at its best. Merry Christmas.”