The Christmas lights switch-on in Knebworth’s high street on Friday has raised more than £3,500 for good causes and has officially kick-started the festive season in the village.

The Comet: Visitors to Friday's event enjoyed live music. Picture: Courtesy of Darren GilbertVisitors to Friday's event enjoyed live music. Picture: Courtesy of Darren Gilbert (Image: Archant)

Organised by Darren and Megan Gilbert - owners of Mather Marshall Knebworth in London Road - for the fourth year running, more than 400 people attended the event, which included fairground rides, market stalls, live music and even a snow machine.

Darren said: "The beautiful lights are shining bright in the wonderful village of Knebworth and it was another huge success.

The Comet: The Christmas lights are twinkling in Knebworth's London Road. Picture: Courtesy of Darren GilbertThe Christmas lights are twinkling in Knebworth's London Road. Picture: Courtesy of Darren Gilbert (Image: Archant)

"A huge thank you to all who attended and made this special. We estimate we have raised over £3,500 collectively. Thank you to everyone. We're proud to bring the community together." The money raised at this year's switch-on will be donated to Knebworth's Link-up Lunch Club and Digswell Place Riding for the Disabled Association.

The Comet: More than 400 people attended the switch-on. Picture: Courtesy of Darren GilbertMore than 400 people attended the switch-on. Picture: Courtesy of Darren Gilbert (Image: Archant)

The Comet: Market stalls provided the opportunity for people to buy some tasty treats. Picture: Courtesy of Darren GilbertMarket stalls provided the opportunity for people to buy some tasty treats. Picture: Courtesy of Darren Gilbert (Image: Archant)