ROTHERHAM enjoyed a taste of the X Factor when residents celebrated the Christmas lights switch-on with a festive party and welcomed South Yorkshire star Alan Turner.
The town's illuminations were brought to life in All Saint's Square and beyond when Lord Mayor of Rotherham Coun Ann Russell pushed the magic button with the help of her grandchildren.
Crowds turned out for the first party of the festive season, compered by Big John and his Breakfast Team along with other presenters from Hallam FM.
Entertainment was provided by Alan Turner, who made it through to boot camp on this year's X Factor, and up-and-coming boy band Avenue, who have been billed as the next Take That.
The annual spectacular, organised by Rotherham Council and Hallam FM, also included a series of games and competitions, carols from the Salvation Army, and a Santa's Grotto where children could deliver their wish lists.
There was a festive market and late-night opening at some town centre shops and a series of fairground rides completed the fun-filled night for families.
Events manager Kate Moreman said: "We had a very traditional switch-on evening this year with brand new illuminations in festive greens and reds.
"It's great that we were able to secure two names like Avenue and Alan Turner for the switch-on."
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