Eastleigh'S town centre streets will be flooded with a dazzling display of light on Saturday when Father Christmas and borough mayor Councillor June Hughes switch on the traditional Christmas illuminations.

This year, more than 2km of lights will light-up the town's shopping streets and Leigh Road Recreation Ground.

Funded by the council's Eastleigh Local Area Committee, the Christmas lights have been acknowledged as one of the best displays in the area.

Local area committee chairman Councillor Steve Sollitt said: "Eastleigh's reputation for a really festive display at Christmas is well known and both visitors and residents can look forward to a truly spectacular event again this year."

Saturday's festivities will begin with a junior fun fair in Leigh Road Recreation Ground at 10am.

Rides and attractions will be open until 10pm.

At 4.30pm the Chandler's Ford-based Thornden School Band will play carols before the official opening at 5.30pm, with both events happening at the bandstand.

Once the all-important switch has been thrown, there will be a fireworks display sponsored by traders through the Eastleigh Town Centre Group of businesses.