Christmas Lights Switch on Blackpool

The festive spirit was alive in Blackpool as thousands of revellers braved the blustery weather for the annual Christmas Lights switch-on. An impressive line-up of stars including singer Mr Hudson and X Factor's Laura White strutted their stuff on stage before pulling the lever to transform the town into a magical wonderland.

The crowd, huddled under umbrellas and raincoats, cheered as Laura belted out the Noisettes' tune Don't Upset The Rhythm and her own new single You Should Have Known. The Bolton singer said: "It's so exciting to be here. I love Blackpool – I've been coming here all my life."

Chart-topper Mr Hudson then took to the stage to get the crowd jumping and singing along to hits White Lies and Supernova. He even showed off his newfound admiration for the town by wearing an "I Love Blackpool" hoodie and said: "They're a wonderful crowd – it's the first day that it's really felt like Christmas to me."

Natalie Wyatt, head of VisitBlackpool, said: "It was packed and everyone had a great time. Fans were impressed by the performances on stage, which also included Bispham High School Gospel Choir and FY West Coast street dancers.

Blacka Acoustics were contracted by Eminent Event Management to provide sound and light management for the event.