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Thousands gathered in St Martin's Square for the Big Switch in November to see ITV 'I'm a Celebrity....get me out of here!' winner and former member of chart topping pop band Busted, Matt Willis turn on the town's festive lights.
The musician turned TV presenter was joined on stage by the cast of the 2009 Towngate Theatre pantomime production, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Heart FM's Martin and Sue were also there to host the afternoon of entertainment.
A funfair was put up in Basildon Town Centre with rides and stalls to entertain the 4,000 crowd.
Santa Claus and Chairman of the Council Cllr Mo Larkin joined Matt Willis on stage to switch on the lights as fireworks wowed spectators.
Click on the thumbnail images to see a larger version of each photo...
 | Councillor Mo Larkin with the cast of the Jack and the Beanstalk panto, Santa Claus and Matt Willis |  | Matt Wills with some members of the Jack and the Beanstalk panto cast |
 | Matt Willis on stage switching on the Christmas lights |  | Girl group Bubbel G on stage at the Big switch on |
 | Matt Willis greet the 4,000 strong crowd at the Big Switch On |  | One of the stilt walkers at the Big Switch on |
 | Matt Willis gives the thumbs up with Santa Claus |  | One of the many performances at the Big Switch On |
 | Heart FM's Martin and Sue entertain the crowd |  | Kids meet Santa Claus in Basildon Town Centre |