Thousands flocked to see Christmas lights switch-on in Sheffield despite wet weather

With the help of the star-studded line-up who were on hand to illuminate the city, the festive season this year certainly kicked off in style.

Local lad and X-Factor star Jake Quickenden hit the big switch to light up the city from the Peace Gardens stage and he was joined by Britain's Got Talent's Siobhan Phillips and local BGT star Kyle Tomlinson.

There were also appearances from Sheffield Lyceum's Cinderella panto stars Mr Maker and Dame funny-man Damien Willams, X-Factor's Jordan Rabjohn, Channy, Luca, girlband DIVA, dance group Hype Dance, plus The Stagecoach and Vicacity choirs.

Although the big switch did not start until later, many took the opportunity to warm up to the main event by attending the annual Moor Christmas Party that took place from 12.30pm to 4.30pm.

This was followed by The Moor Christmas Tree light switch-on at 4pm with the Lord Mayor Coun Tony Downing and characters from the Manor Operatic Panto.

The event has also evoked those nostalgic childhood memories as the crowds were entertained by choirs, Santa's grotto, carolling, panto, street entertainment, the Christmas market, children's TV and film characters, Christmas craft activities and fairground rides.

And the wet weather failed to dampen the Christmas spirit, as thousands flocked to the city centre as early as noon, hours before the countdown to the big switch-on at 5.30pm.

An international student from Taiwan, Chen Chun Hua said it was her first time witnessing a Christmas lights switch-on.

"The lights are just beautiful. My friends and I arrived here hours before the main event to check out the Christmas markets and decided to stay on for the switch-on. It was worth it."

Lisa Armstrong of Mosborough said attending the Christmas lights switch-on is a yearly event for her and her family.

"The lights are lovely and beautiful and we come here each year. The performances keep getting better every year, too," she said.