Inverness Christmas lights switch on.

The Inverness Christmas Lights were switched on by Provost Alex Graham on Sunday night to start the countdown to Christmas in the Highland capital.

Against a background of an illuminated Inverness Town House before an enthusiastic crowd estimated to be in the region of 4,500; STV's Nicola McAlley hosted a 45 minute show that featured the unforgettable sight of Bjorn the Polar Bear prowling around the stage making friends wherever he went.

Entertainment on the stage was provided by TFX Scotland Musical Theatre School and Singing for Pleasure; with Mascot Madness, Fly Agaric and the Giant Seagulls providing entertainment on the streets.

Following the arrival of Santa, 10 year old Betsy King stepped forward to lead the crowd in a countdown that saw the city centre's decorations burst into life. The Provost then accompanied Santa to the Old High Church for the traditional Christmas Carol Concert - "Ding Dong Merrily Old High" before the evening closed with the selection of the 24 Community Groups who will each receive £100 from the Inverness Festivals Advent Calendar Draw.

The winners are:

December 1 - 4B Inverness Girls' Brigade;
December 2 - Ness Soaps;
December 3 - Inverness Hospital Radio;
December 4 - Volunteering Highland;
December 5 - Carr Gorm;
December 6 - Highland Bears Basketball;
December 7- The Falcon Group.
December 8 - Inverness Opera Society;
December 9 - The Archie Highland Appeal;
December 10 - Maggies Highland;
December 11 - Highland Disability Sport;
December 12 - British Red Cross;
December 13 - Shopmobility Highland;
December 14 - Friends of Eden Court;
December 15 - Crown Community Association;
December 16 - Highland RFC;
December 17- Holm Community Council;
December 18 - Free North Campaigner Group.
December 19 - Cheerful Chesters;
December 20 - Upper Glenurquhart Playgroup;
December 21 - Inverness Music Festival;
December 22 - Children First;
December 23 - Crown Primary School;
December 24 - Drummond School.