CHRISTMAS lights have been switched on around the region this weekend.

Celebrations took place in Selby marketplace, with a festive market throughout the day, along with music and entertainment from local schools and performers, and a visit from Pudsey Bear before deputy mayor Gavin Harding and his consort Oliver Husband switched on the illuminations on the Christmas tree.

In Malton, residents took part in a Santa Run on Sunday, with fun runs throughout the day leading up to the big switch-on, followed by entertainment from The Voice star Beth McCarthy, Kirkham Henry Choir, and Ryedale's Got Talent winners Zac and George.

The lights were also switched on in Burn over the weekend, with songs and performances on the green opposite the village pub on Saturday, and a Tree Festival at Burn Methodist Chapel and a Christmas Market run by Burn Community Group.

Father Christmas was also present at Norton on Saturday, while residents in Pickering enjoyed a festive market and entertainment from local artists.