HUNDREDS braved the cold and watched the show as Blackburn's Christmas lights were switched on.

Star guest Michael le Vell, who plays Kevin Webster in Coronation Street turned on the lights, after a night of entertainment outside the town hall.

It included appearances from Blackburn Rovers player David Dunn, former Happy Mondays singer and X-Factor finalist Rowetta while the Cathedral Young People's Choir performed.

Mayor Coun Maureen McGarvey, also took to the stage, and the crowd was showered with fake snow just before the lights came on, accompanied by a firework display Le Vell, said: "It was a great night and, as a Manchester man I thought that I should give something back to the people of Blackburn after we took two goals off them last weekend!

"But seriously, the lights look beautiful and they will brighten the whole town."

Rowetta added: "It's been a brilliant night and it was lovely to see the square so packed - they were a great audience."

Luke Smith, 42, of Olive Lane, Darwen, said: ""The lights look great and it feels properly Christmassy now."

  • Click on the link below for our photo gallery from the event.