Christmas came to Loch Lomond Shores in spectacular style on Sunday with fireworks, entertainment and all-round festive jollity.

And big switch-on at Loch Lomond Shores was a day to remember for eight-year-old Aaron Hunter from Alexandria.

For he had the special task of hitting the plunger to bring on the Christmas lights at the spectacular finale of the day.

The St Kessog’s Primary pupil was pleased as Punch when the lights fired up to produce a big cheer from the crowd.

Mum Elisabeth told the Reporter: “Aaron loved it. He felt really honoured to have such a special task on the day.”

It proved to be a busy afternoon for Aaron, for as well as rubbing shoulders with Santa at the lights event, he also helped fundraise for the ROHHAD charity.

Aaron is suffers from a very rare syndrome – Rapid-onset Obesity with Hypothalamic dysfunction, Hypoventilation and Autonomic Dysregulation – and ROHHAD works to raise awareness of the condition.

Elisabeth added: “We had 12 of our volunteers with us to help with fundraising and the day turned out to be very successful. We raised £1,500 which was great – everyone was very generous and asked a lot about ROHHAD as some people had not heard of the organisation before.

“Aaron was also there at our stall and spoke to many people interested to find out more.”

A crowd of several thousand cheered as the lights switch-on heralded the official start of Yuletide.

This year the event was bigger than ever with the addition of extra decorations and activities, including the launch of a continental-style Christmas market with roast chestnuts, mulled wine, German sausages, gingerbread and treats.

Six hours of entertainment started at noon with Your Radio's Gary Marshall introducing a star-filled schedule to keep the party going with a swing.

The included a range of singers, dancers, a magic act and a special performance from St Patrick's School choir.

Then at 5.45pm there was a big welcome for the man of the moment - Santa Claus - who arrived for the lights switch-on at 6pm.

Other activities include face painters, balloons, a cartoonist and a carousel.

He was accompanied by a representative of the Alexandria-based Rohhad Association which was raising funds on the day to raise awareness of the rare and life threatening medical condition which affects children.

The Kilted Skirlie restaurant had a special festive menu available on the day, took bookings for tables with a vantage point from which to view the fireworks.