EVEN the weather couldn't deter the crowds that flocked to see the annual Christmas lights switch-on ceremonies in Blackpool and St Annes.

Hundreds turned out in Blackpool to see Santa's procession wend its way through to Bank Hey Street ready for the switch-on.

EastEnders star Howard Antony turned up in a big white stretch limousine to perform the ceremony with his usual good humour.

As soon as the big moment was over, the Radio Wave roadshow took centre stage, playing to a large crowd in the colourful streets.

Afterwards, Nigel Hanson, manager of Blackpool Town Centre Forum, said: "The weather wasn't as kind to us as it was last year but lots of people enjoyed themselves.

"It was nice to see that it was enjoyed by those who watched as much as by those who participated."

In St Annes the switch-on was an extra special moment for traders and townspeople, as they saw the lights that have been under threat due to lack of council money, go on in a blaze of colour.

Performing the switch-on was little Georgia Bishop, the six-year-old daughter of Andy and Tracy Bishop, landlords of the Salters Wharf, Brewers Fayre pub, who donated £3,000 to save the lights from being scaled down.

Mayor Dawn Prestwich said: "It was a wonderful switch-on in St Annes thanks to the Chamber of Trade and the people who chipped in to help.

"The little girl who turned on the lights was the star of the show. Christmas is a time for children and it was wonderful to see her eyes aglow with wonder along with so many happy faces."

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