Hundreds of people celebrated the start of festive season by gathering to watch a giant Christmas tree light up Watford town centre.

As the bells from St Mary's Church rang out across the High Street, crowds gathered beside the tree, which has been decorated with thousands of blue lights.

Then shortly after 6pm, they counted down to the moment when the lights were switched on by Watford FC announcer Richard Short and members of Blag Theatre Company.

The crowds then moved into the church to enjoy a carol concert, headlined by performances from Watford Palace Theatre Community Choir and Berry Grove School Choir.

The service included Once in Royal David's City; Hark! The Herald Angels Sing; and O Come, All Ye Faithful.

The event was organised by Watford Borough Council, St Mary’s Church, Watford Town Centre Chaplaincy and John Lewis Watford.