Express & Star

Thousands attend Stafford and Halesowen Christmas lights switch-on - with pictures

Hundreds of people packed into Stafford town centre tonight to watch the annual Christmas lights switch-on.

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The Christmas lights are turned on in Stafford

The event was held in Market Square which featured a stage for live acts and a large Christmas tree.

A fireworks display kicked off proceedings around 5pm before the music began rolling.

WATCH time-lapse footage showing crowds gathering for the Stafford lights switch-on

There was a festive atmosphere, with the crowds enjoying the live music, funfair rides and stalls lining the town centre.

Among those in the crowds was Jane and Bill Chinnock, from Stafford, who attended with their daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren.

Jane, 68, said: "We come here every year, but this year is definitely better than last year. There is a great atmosphere."

Elsewhere hundreds of people flocked to Somers Square in Halesowen to see the festive decorations flicked into life.

Halesowen Christmas lights switch-on
Halesowen Christmas lights switch-on
Halesowen Christmas lights switch-on

The event saw a series of special guests attend.

X Factor and Celebrity Big Brother star Stevi Ritchie was the headline act, while army veteran David Watson, who won gold at the Invictus Games, was chosen to switch on the lights.

Crowds were also entertained with fire-breathers on the stage.

The show was hosted by Black Country Radio.