Pictures have been released for the first look at this year's new Christmas lights.

The new lights in Chelmsford High Street will include a large-scale net-like facade instead of multiple strip sections of lighting, which were adopted in previous years.

The cool white lights will create a large "modern and contemporary ceiling of lights" set out along the high street. 

Leader of Chelmsford council, councillor Roy Whitehead, said “Visitors and shoppers in Chelmsford will be met by a brand-new light display this Christmas. A new set of Christmas lights is being installed in the High Street ahead of the festive season.

"The work will include modernising the previous lights to bring a full LED display. This will reduce the amount of electricity used and will also create an eye-catching and high impact festive scene in the city centre. The lights used in the past were feeling their age since they were first rolled out eight years ago.”

Join merry crowds to watch the the new Christmas lights illuminate Chelmsford High Street on November 26. Entertainment will begin at 2pm and the finale will go off with a bang at 4.45pm, when fireworks will launch near the Meadows Shopping Centre and the Town Sign.

No matter what your age is, there’s something magical about the Christmas Lights Switch-On, so bring your family and join in the festivities at Chelmsford’s annual event. 

Late Night Shopping begins in Chelmsford in December.

To find out more about the Christmas Lights Switch On and other seasonal celebrations, visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/christmas.