The island's capital will switch on its Christmas lights tonight (Thursday) to mark the start of the festive season.

Crowds are expected to converge on Ridgeway Street for festivities that get under way at 6.15pm with a sneak preview of this year's panto, Sleeping Beauty, followed by carols with the Douglas Town Band, songs from local singer Grace Lee, and entertainment from the Voiceworks choir.

The lights will be switched on at 7pm by Mayor of Douglas Sara Hackman. The Thursday late night seasonal shopping begins tonight, with free parking in the local authority-run Shaw's Brow, Chester Street and Bottleneck car parks from 5pm to 10pm each pre-Christmas Thursday, and all day Saturday and Sunday until December 24.

Got a story? Contact Joanne on 340000 or email newsdesk@manx.net

twitter @jonewsiom