GLADIATOR star Hunter rose to the challenge of switching on Preston town centre's Christmas lights in a spectacular event.

The muscle-clad Glad, real name James Crossley, mingled with the 3,000-strong crowd, chatted to local fans of the TV show and signed autographs.

The 25-year-old celebrity, who stands tall at 6ft 3ins, went down a treat with youngsters and their mums! Hunter was also in town to promote the Christmas pantomime at the Guild Hall, where he will plays the part of the prince.

The big switch-on at the Flag Market last Thursday (November 27) also featured pint-sized DJ Brian Moore from Rock FM with a live radio broadcast.

Live acts Another Level and Rebecca Brown belted out their tunes while Rock FM gave out prize freebies to the waiting crowds. Major sponsors Telewest had pulled out of this year's event meaning a planned torch-lit procession had to be scrapped, but Preston Borough Council managed to plough £25,000 into a dazzling laser lights display so the show could go on.

Brian Manning, director of Preston's leisure services, said: "The atmosphere was tremendous and the laser show was brilliant - really captivating and original."

The council now hopes to attract a new sponsor to support next year's Christmas lights extravaganza.

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