IT is beginning to look a lot like Christmas right across Hyndburn, as Accrington had its Christmas lights switch-on last night.
Britain’s Got Talent winner Jai McDowall performed in front of thousandswho gathered in front of the Market Hall before flicking the switch.
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Before the Scottish singer, who won the 2011 series of the ITV talent contest, performed, There was also entertainment from Amy Jo Clough, Redd, Tiger Heart, Mr Zip, Hannah Joy and Matt Fitzgerald. Accrington Stanley players and the mayor, Cllr Munsif Dad, were also present.
There was also a firework display and shops stayed open late so families could take part in some late night shopping.
Five-year-old Katie-Ann Wilson was with her mum and dad, Joanne and Andrew, and baby sister Rochelle, who turns one on January 2.
Katie-Ann said: “I’m having a really good time and can’t wait for Christmas.”
“I like the big Christmas tree as well.”
Carol and Frank Taylor, from Shadsworth in Blackburn, were enjoying the entertainment with daughter Katie Allen and her friend Joyce Baxter.
It was their third switch on of the festive season after Blackburn and Darwen’s last week.
Carol said: “Christmas is coming. I am looking forward to Christmas this year.
“I just love to see the children happy at this time of the year.”
Santa’s grotto will be open from tomorrow in the market hall.
On Wednesday, a festive crowd braved the weather to see Oswaldtwistle’s Christmas lights switched on.
Council workers scrambled to get the display in Jubilee Gardens ready for the switch-flick after vandals struck at the weekend.
St Andrew’s Primary School’s choir sang, and East Lancashire Concert Band performed.
Youngsters from the Civic Arts Centre in Union Road read poems. Cllr Judith Addison was MC. Carnival queen Stephanie Moore flicked the switch, and The Welfare Group gave out mince pies and chocolates.
The lights in Clayton-le-Moors were also switched on this week. Switch-ons will take place in Huncoat on Monday, Church on Tuesday, Milnshaw on Thursday, Baxenden, Rishton and Great Harwood next Friday, and Altham on December 15.
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