SANTA saved the day at Astley Bridge’s Christmas lights switch on after a momentary power cut left attendees worrying the decorations would not be illuminated at all.

Luckily, by the time Father Christmas arrived at Andrew Lane Park in his sleigh the electricity was back up and running.

As he flicked the giant switch with Reverend Nick McKee of St Paul’s Church, the two trees twinkled for all to see.

The fourth annual Astley Bridge Christmas lights switch on was the biggest yet with grant funding allowing organisers from the newly-formed Friends of Astley Bridge to provide a marquee.

This marquee played host to school choirs, the Astley Bridge Choir, Midweek Sax and The Eden Singers and was the only area affected by the power cut, caused by an operational error.

Volunteers manning stalls showed their festive spirit by handing out free mulled wine, mince pies, tangerines and soft drinks.