THOUSANDS of people gathered to celebrate the start of festive season in Accrington.

The ‘Amazing Accrington Countdown to Christmas’ took place near the Arndale Centre on Thursday night featuring a variety of guests and entertainment.

A firework display took place to mark proceedings and brighten up the chilly evening for the approximately 9,500 guests in attendance.

A snow machine brought a festive feel to the town and a Christmas funfair provided games for children.

The event was organised by Hyndburn Council and sponsored by Duckworths Estate Agents and Accrington & Rossendale College.

Cllr Clare Cleary, cabinet member for Accrington town centre, said: “The Christmas Countdown was a real team effort with fantastic collaboration.

“The hard work on the night and in the months leading up to it led to a very well organised safe event that sets Amazing Accrington as having the premier Christmas event this year.”

Accrington Stanley’s Max Stryjek and club mascot Winstanley represented the team.

The leading entertainment was provided by former X-Factor contestants Ryan Lawrie and Sam Lavery who sang to the adoring crowds in attendance.

Dene Michael from 80s group Black Lace, Ella Shaw and Mr Zip from Britain’s Got Talent and Brooke Layla from The Voice Kids also performed.

A Christmas craft market was also on hand in the Ballroom at Accrington Town Hall to give guests a chance to buy festive crafts and sweet treats.

While children got the opportunity to meet Santa Claus at the event and a number of the town centre shops stayed open to allow people to do some Christmas shopping.

Shahed Mahmood, from the Hyndburn Chamber of Trade, said: “It was a very well attended event.

"It was good to see so many people come out.

“There was a good few activities on offer.

“However it would have been good to see a few more of the local traders contacted by the organisers about getting involved.”