RESIDENTS, school children and councillors came together to mark the official launch of the festive season in north Oxford.

The annual Summertown Christmas light switch-on event has been held in the area for the last ten years.

About 40 people turned up for the festivities on Friday at 5pm near Savills, Banbury Road.

There was carol singing from Cutteslowe Primary School children and Oxford High School as well as music from St Edward's Brass Band and mince pies provided by the nearby Co-Operative store.

Fellow local business Carter Jonas Estate Agents also provided the Christmas tree for the annual celebration and there was hot and cold refreshments for participants.

Summertown councillor and Lord Mayor of Oxford Jean Fooks was on hand to press the all-important button and light up the Christmas tree at 5.30pm to mark the official start of the countdown to Christmas.

She said of the event: "I think it went really well.

"It was cold but we managed, we had our carols and our singing and our mince pies which were really welcome given the cold.

"It's a really good tradition and it was good to see so many people out."

She added: "Christmas has officially begun."