THE festive season has officially arrived.

A giant robot and a tropical steel band were last night among the festivities that launched the countdown to Christmas in Southampton.

Thousands of people were blown away by the spectacular switch-on and host of activities at Southampton’s Festival of Christmas.

Mesmerised youngsters gathered in Marlands shopping centre to see Mayor of Southampton Councillor Carol Cunio turn on the city’s lights with the help of characters from The Nuffield’s A Christ-mas Carol. As the crowd’s loud countdown hit zero, cheers erupted as the dazzling displays lit up the centre.

Shoppers and children dressed in reindeer ears and Santa hats left the Marlands at Above Bar to the sound of Crestwood College’s steel band, Panatical.

The town crier and Mayor then officially opened this year’s festive market in Above Bar complete with Bavarian huts with the backdrop of the impressive Christmas tree at the Bargate, sponsored by West Quay Retail Park.

Cllr Cunio told the Daily Echo: “It was very different to previous years because everyone seems to want to get involved and we have a variety of different stalls at the market. I truly hope everyone has a happy Christmas.”

WestQuay came up with a different idea to welcome the festivities. Santa was traded for a performance by a 7ft android Titan the Robot. The robot, which has appeared in the Big Brother house and live on stage with pop star Rihanna, impressed cheering crowds with his moves.

Meanwhile free face painting, balloon modellers and a magician featured at both of the city’s shopping centres.

Echo picture by Chris Moorhouse.