EIGHT hundred people saw the switch on of Great Harwood’s Christmas lights.

Visitors were treated to a medley of Christmas carols performed by children from Our Lady & St Hubert's School, St Wulstan's Primary School, St Bartholomew's Parish Primary School and St John's Primary School.

Hot Vimto, mince pies and sausages were amongst the festive fare on offer.

Santa himself also made a visit.

BBC Radio Lancashire’s Stephen Lowe compered the proceedings, which included the rededication of the town’s Mercer Clock, along with an unveiling of artwork produced by local artist Eddie Foster.

Mayor of Hyndburn, Coun Judith Addison joined Leslie Mercer in flicking the switch on Friday.

Coun Gareth Molineux said: “The switch on was another fantastic Great Harwood community event, where hundreds of people came together to get in the festive spirit, see the lights switched on and the rededication of the Great Harwood Memorial clock, Mercer Clock.

“I want to say a huge thank you to the many people who were involved in making this event a huge success and to all the people who came along on the night and made it the fabulous evening it was.”