Christmas got underway in Warlingham on Saturday 24th November with the traditional lantern parade and switching on of the Christmas lights on a very muddy Warlingham Green! Despite the rainy weather, hundreds of residents turned out in their raincoats and wellies to see the Warlingham Flute Band lead the lantern parade onto The Green and the Christmas lights being turned on. The crowd then joined in with the traditional carol singing by a combined children's choir.

The organisers are very grateful to Natwest bank for sponsoring the lantern parade and carol singing this year.

A new feature for this Christmas is a stunning corner tree covered in hundreds of lights.

Many of the local shops stayed open late so people could make a start on their Christmas shopping including Dales gift shop, Warlingham Furniture and Son Flowers florists.

As always, the event was a very special occasion and a lovely start to the Christmas season in Warlingham.