Dorchester is planning to make the big festive switch-on the biggest yet.

The Christmas Cracker will be held on Sunday, December 10, from 11am to 4pm.

Despite rising costs threatening Christmas lights in towns across the country, Dorchester Town Council has no plans to cancel or cut back on the festivities.

A spokesperson said: "Dorchester Town Council in partnership with Dorchester BID will be providing Christmas lights for all to enjoy as usual this year.

"There are no plans to reduce or cease the display which we believe helps to bring seasonal cheer to the town centre helping to make Dorchester a pleasant festive place to live, visit and work in."

There will be Christmas entertainment, Santa in a camper, the Santa Hat Parade, classic cars and loads of festive spirit.

The Children's Santa Hat Parade is also back. Meet at top of High West Street for a 12-noon start. There will be free Santa hats for those taking part.

The streets will be full of stalls and entertainment on High West and East Street which will be closed to traffic. Stalls have been fully booked, and there will be more than 120 festive traders.

The road closures will be in place from 8am to 6pm.

A spokesperson for the event said: "This year's Cracker Day on Sunday, December 10 is the biggest yet.

"Thanks to our main sponsors Everycare Dorchester and Kingston Maurward College and the indoor Christmas fair sponsor Farnfields Solicitors."

Among the more than 120 stalls this year include Crazy Cow Coffee, Starry Night Sewing Handmade children’s clothing and embroidered gifts, Luna Boo Wax Melts, Penz’n’Wood Handcrafted pens and more.

To find out more and keep up to date visit: facebook.com/dorchesterchristmascracker