CROWDS gathered to watch Pippa the polar bear switch on Newport's Christmas lights.

Pippa made the trip to Newport from Robin Hill, which is holding a POLAR event throughout the festive season.

Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council held a Day of Christmas event on Saturday, which included the annual switch-on.

There were stalls and performers at Newport Minster throughout the day, followed by a carnival parade through the town featuring the Medina Marching Band, Vectis Corp Drums, the Isle of Wight Highland Pipes and Drums, Summerfield Primary, Hunnyhill Primary, Prices Garage, Sandown Queens, Ventnor Queens, The Isle of Wight Young Farmers Club, Newport Rainbows and Ventnor Free School.

Carnival organiser Paddy McHugh said: "Newport was the only town this year that held a Christmas winter parade. I wanted the parade to take place before the Christmas lights switch-on to create more atmosphere.

"I was extremely pleased with the support from all the entries and especially the awesome support of the public that came out on the wet night. It was truly amazing, there were so many people.

"I'd like to give a special thank you to Wight Ribbon for the beautiful Vintage Car that the Newport Queens travelled in.

"My aim now is to build on this years success with bigger and better ideas for next year."

Don't forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.