MALDON'S Christmas lights will be switched on before an evening of town centre shopping on Thursday, 26 November, the town council heard this evening (Tuesday, 15 September).

The switch on will happen at 5pm and local shops will stay open until 8pm.

Mayor Abdul Hafiz will switch the lights on from the balcony of the Moot Hall.

However, there will not be any stalls or street entertainment and it will be crucial to ensure that all current Covid safety measures are observed.

Speaking at Maldon Town Council's full council meeting, Councillor Michael Pearlman said that the town's businesses are "100 per cent behind the plan".

He added: "This year will be difficult because of the Covid situation. Fingers crossed there won't be any other lockdowns."