PRESTON was lit up in a lights fantastic last night (Wednesday) as a host of stars of the small screen joined the city's mayor at the Flag Market for the annual switch-on.

The city's main shopping streets are now a dazzling parade of glittering delights as the cast of this year's Charter Theatre pantomime, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, turned out to flick the switch.

Hollyoaks' Colin Wells, who plays the Sheriff of Nottingham in the panto', joined Dream Team star Scott Taylor, who plays Robin, and 'Maid Marian' Melanie Ash, of Emmerdale, for the annual event with Mayor, Councillor Pat Woods, and consort/husband, Alan.

The night, organised by Preston City Centre Management Company and supported by AvenCentral Partnership and Preston City Council, kicked off at 4.30pm with a rousing gospel music performance by One Voice Community Choir.

Up and coming band, Freefaller, who were recently billed alongside ace pop band, Busted, rocked the evening crowd with their latest hit record, 'Do this, Do that', and family fun was provided by radio presenters from Rock FM and Magic 999.

Youngsters in the crowd even spotted Father Christmas as he made his way to the grotto opposite as part of the city's annual Christmas Wonderland festive treats.

Inside the grotto visitors will find polar bears, Santa's toy-making room and plenty or hard-working elves.

Next to the grotto there is a selection of children's rides and a huge bouncy snowman which young Citizen readers are being given the chance to name.