THE sky above Padiham was lit up last night as children from a local school pulled the switch on the town's Christmas lights.

A service of traditional carols was given on the steps of the Town Hall in Burnley Road before the lights were switched on to loud cheers from an expectant crowd of hundreds.

Burnley's Mayor, Coun Jack Alston watched as children from St Leonard's CE School in Moor Lane sang in front of proud parents and onlookers.

A spokesman for the school said: "It was a wonderful night. The children made us very proud and I'm sure that everyone had a wonderful time.

"Their singing was excellent and the little girl who gave a solo performance rounded off the night beautifully."