The tree has been put up - but yet to be decorated - as the countdown for the Great Yarmouth Christmas lights switch on begins.

This year, the tree has been relocated to the north end of the covered market, compared to its usual position on the piazza, which will remain a building site until April 2025.

The space between the Market Place Car Park and the north end of the covered market will be cordoned off for the audience to count down to the switch-on.

The town centre manager, Jonathan Newman, says the grand illumination will take place at 7pm on Friday, November 22, and will be followed immediately by a grand fireworks display.

Town centre manager Jonathan Newman, pictured in front of this year's Christmas TreeTown centre manager Jonathan Newman, pictured in front of this year's Christmas Tree (Image: Bruno Brown) “It is traditionally the start of the festive season here in Yarmouth, it is an occasion the people cherish and we want to make it a brilliant family day out," he said. 

"It used to be on a Wednesday night but we found a Friday night was more popular.

“There will be entertainment from 4pm, and the lights will go on at 7pm, followed by a firework display from the Market Gates rooftop which will fire rockets 100ft into the air.

"I am excited we are doing it in this new location and believe it will be a grand occasion.

"Next year will be even better when the work is complete and we can return the event to its usual position."

Great Yarmouth Christmas lights switch on event 2013Great Yarmouth Christmas lights switch on event 2013 (Image: Newsquest) This Sunday, (November 17), between noon and 6:30pm, will be the Gorleston Christmas lights switch-on.

Shops will be open and additional vendors will line the road selling a wide range of handmade crafts, gifts, food, drinks and sweet treats.

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Local artists will perform live music to crowds, and just like the Great Yarmouth switch on, performers will be supported by Harbour Radio and its setlist of festive favourites.

The weekend of the Great Yarmouth lights switch on, there will be a three-day free entry Christmas Craft Fayre at the Great Yarmouth Minster, from Friday to Sunday.

On Saturday, November 23, there will be Punch and Judy shows over the course of the day held in the covered market area.