Families flocked to Wilmslow for the town’s entertainment-filled Christmas lights switch on event on Friday.

Crowds gathered on Grove Street to watch Diva Fever switch on the lights, with the help of Father Christmas.

There was a buzz about the town as the celebrations took over the centre with a Christmas market, entertainment by Imagine FM, and Lacey Green Primary School choir.

The event also included performances from local rock band Forever and A Day, Hatty Keane from Macclesfield, jazz singer Alexander Stewart, the Rock Choir and Re Connected who took part in the 2009 Britain’s Got Talent.

Then at 6.30pm the crowds screamed with delight as Diva Fever, from last year’s X Factor, performed for the crowd before flicking the switch which turned the centre into a blaze of colour.

Organiser Denise Valente, of Wilmslow Business Group, said the event was a ‘huge success.

She added: “We hope the event has filled everyone with festive cheer and got them in the mood to do their Christmas shopping in Wilmslow.

“The event was a great success in terms of boosting business in the town.

“Everyone pulled out all the stops to make this event a success and I’m really grateful.”

The market will be held until Sunday with stalls located on the Alderley Road slip road, from Sainsbury’s to MultiYork.

There will be more than 100 stalls selling a range of gifts, crafts and foods from all over Europe.

Denise, said: “The market will provide a totally continental feel.

“And then there’s the magical Santa’s grotto which will be in the Romany caravan and the ice rink to keep people entertained.”