A Christmas lights switch-on was disrupted when a man punched a police officer.

Dozens of people had gathered at Hanningtons Lane in Brighton at around 6pm ahead of the event, with a choir, mulled wine and festive cheer.

However, just moments before the event was due to start, a man broke through the crowd while engaged in a scuffle with a police officer.

Onlookers gasped as the man punched the officer in the face before attempting to flee the scene.

One person there for the switch-on intervened and a man was stopped and pinned down by more officers, who then arrested him.

The switch-on continued as planned after the incident, with the Theatre Royal’s mascot mouse Skip turning on the lights along the street and The Lanes.

Sussex Police have been approached for comment.