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Crowds gather for big Xmas lights switch-on

Stephanie Turner
30/11/2006

THE festive season has officially arrived as the town centre Christmas lights were switched on in front of thousands of people,

The Christmas shopping season was also launched last Thursday and the rain stayed off long enough for the crowds to enjoy Take That tribute band Want u Back on stage.

A performing arts group from Accrington and Rossendale also entertained the crowds and they were joined by characters in costume from the pantomime Cinderella.

It is estimated that over 5,000 people joined in the fun and games which was hosted by 107fm the Bee.

The lights were switched on by the Mayor of Hyndburn, Councillor Mohamed Rahman, and the ceremony was supported by the various performers and traders in the town.

Dr Rahman said: "The event was a major success and the crowds came in their thousands. It was really good to see everyone having a great time and the fireworks were fantastic."

Leader of the council Peter Britcliffe added: "A lot of hard work goes into making these events work, and this has certainly proved a real success again this year."

An earlier warning by Accrington Police against the use of silly string on the night was heeded, with no incidents being recorded.

However, a group of about 50 youths had to be moved on inside the Arndale Centre because they were causing a nuisance.

Town centre sergeant Ian Corbett said: "This was just down to the sheer volume of people in the town that night. Overall we had no problems and the police received positive feedback from the town centre manager and shopowners."

Only one shoplifting offence was recorded during the evening.