A day of festivities was held in Barking which included the switching-on of the town's Christmas tree lights.

Titled Barking Mad About Christmas, the event on Saturday (December 3) was held around Town Square, Barking Learning Centre and Barking Market.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Marsh Green Primary School's choir performMarsh Green Primary School's choir perform (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

A Santa's grotto gave children the chance to receive a free present whilst there was also an Elf hunt for people to take part in.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Crowds descended on Barking for the day's eventsCrowds descended on Barking for the day's events (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

Entertainment featured carol singing, wreath making, dance performances, magic shows and festive bingo.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Dance collective Big Deal show off some movesDance collective Big Deal show off some moves (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

The day ended with the tree lights being turned on.

Barking and Dagenham Post: A performer outside Barking Town HallA performer outside Barking Town Hall (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

Council leader Darren Rodwell previously said the council was delighted to offer free fun for families at the end of a "difficult" year for many in the context of the cost-of-living crisis.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Council leader Darren Rodwell with prizesCouncil leader Darren Rodwell with prizes (Image: Jimmy Lee Photography)

He added: “Barking and Dagenham is the place to be when it comes to Christmas celebrations."

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