Thousands of people have been braving the bitter cold across south-east London and north Kent for Christmas lights festivities. 

It may not yet be December but families and friends have already been wrapping up warm to watch the illuminations switch on over a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie as children visit Santa's grotto.

News Shopper has collated some colourful snaps of readers getting into the festive spirit at the different events for you to enjoy - but can you spot yourself in the crowds? 

If you've not had your local lights switch on yet, please send your photos when you do to newsroom@london.newsquest.co.uk, tweet us @NewsShopper or visit our Facebook page.

GREENWICH

The Christmas festivities in Greenwich town centre began with the local school children’s lantern procession and the switching on of the new sparkly lights.

Characters from Greenwich Theatre Panto, Red Riding Hood made a special appearance, alongside actors from the Hollyoaks cast.

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Left to right: Hollyoaks actors, John Omole, who plays Vincent Elegba, Fabrizio Santino, who plays Ziggy Roscoe and Ayden Callaghan, who plays Joe Roscoe. 

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ORPINGTON

Orpington High Street was transformed with a funfair, gift stalls, food court and a stage providing live entertainment all evening for the Christmas lights switch on.

Children sang Christmas carols on stage and fastest British female sprinter in history Dina Asher-Smith switched the lights on.

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Orpington Christmas lights switch-on photos by Keith Larby/AK Photos

BLUEWATER, GREENHITHE

Guests were treated to a dazzling display of lights, lasers and flames and a spectacular firework display to celebrate the start of the festive season.

Bluewater’s reindeer were also brought to life through illumination to welcome visitors arriving for the event.

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GRAVESEND

Here’s some snaps from the Gravesend lantern parade and light switch on in the town centre.

The cast of this year’s pantomime, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, made an appearance, including EastEnders star Ricky Norwood, who plays the Sheriff of Nottingham.

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ELTHAM

Thousands of residents turned out for the annual Eltham Lights Up.

It was a chilly night as entertainment got underway on the stage and streets in Eltham.  

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CHISLEHURST

Hundreds of people lined the streets for Chislehurst's Christmas Bonanza with stalls, entertainment and a parade before the lights switch on.

Clare Herriot, event organiser, 2gether charity shop manager and Chislehurst Business Group CEO said: "There was a true sense of community spirit, everyone who volunteered was dedicated to making the day a success.

"As a business group we work together to create a thriving and vibrant Chislehurst. Thank you to all who came and those that took part to make it possible, we hope you enjoy the lights."

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Bromley and Chislehurst MP Bob Neill with Santa 

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Think you've caught something unusual or newsworthy on camera in south-east London or north Kent? Send your photos and video to newsroom@london.newsquest.co.uk.