YOUNG and old alike flooded the streets of Poulton and Fleetwood this weekend to witness the spectacular annual Christmas lights switch-on.

Friday saw Poulton square bursting with cheery on-lookers, who were determined to keep their Christmas spirits high despite the dismal and dank weather. A good time was had by all thanks to large helpings of Radio Wave's hip DJ Lionel Vinyl and the local answer to S-Club 7, FY8.

Coun Harry Taylor said: "It was great. The square was packed with children and parents enjoying themselves. We were very lucky that the wind dropped just as the switch on took place and it wasn't too cold.

"The lights this year have been generously sponsored by Gary Dean of Elletson Publishing House, Poulton, and Paul Mellor, owner of The Cube and the Hub.

"The decorations look stunning, St Chad's church is floodlit and all the trees are filled with fairy lights. Walking into Poulton is just like walking into fairyland."

On Saturday Fleetwood was similarly lit up with hundreds of fairy lights and spectacular festive features.

The Mayor and Majoress of Wyre joined in the festivities with Santa and led a procession from Fisherman's Walk to the Roundtree clock on Lord Street.

Fleetwood Regeneration project officer Angie Mackie was present at the event and said: "It all went extremely well. The new lights we have been able to put up are fantastic -- thanks to an exceptionally good year for the Lights appeal.

"The new lights are situated on Albert Square, Adelaide Street and Trawlers Supplies in Fleetwood."

The event also included a free ride on an illuminated tram for all the school children who attended.

Finally, Mark Courtney of the Residents of North Shore Association (RONSA) switched on the lights at Gynn Square, Blackpool, on Sunday with the help of two stars of Blackpool Football Club -- James Pullen and Phil Barnes.

Mark Courtney said: "Bloomfield bear was also in attendance and brought big smiles to the smaller children who had waited in the cold weather."