PENS and paper were swapped for baubles and bows as children welcomed in the festive season.

The 180 pupils from Hextable Infant School, St David's Road, Swanley, eagerly gathered in their hall to dress this year's Christmas tree.

The four to seven year-olds all lent a helping hand and within 40 minutes the 12-foot tree was glittering with baubles, tinsel and beads.

The ceremony was rounded up with a selection of Christmas poems, carols and stories performed by each class.

After the celebration, headteacher Judith Webster said: "It was awe-inspiring and the children had a fantastic time.

"It was the first time we have held the ceremony and it is something we would like to do again next year."