Hundreds pack town centre for Christmas lights switch on

Christmas lights switch on
Simon Webbe

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Hundreds of people gathered in Rochdale this evening (Thursday 18 November 2010) for the Christmas lights switch on.

Crowds were entertained by a superb line up of singers including the winner of Rochdale’s Got Talent, Ellysse Mason, Courtney Cecere and Bonafide, Brit Love and boy band the Kixx but the main man, and the one flicking the switch for the lights, was ex boy band member turned solo singer Simon Webbe.

The audience went wild for Simon, who had been delayed on the motorway; he performed three tracks before turning on the lights for Christmas 2010.

Speaking to Rochdale Online he said: “It’s always nice coming up north. It’s a breath of fresh air. The crowd have been great and they stuck around for me – I can’t thank them enough.”

Before heading off Simon signed autographs and had his photograph taken with fans.

The switch on was hosted by radio breakfast show presenters Ditchy and Salty who were delighted to be in Rochdale.

Ditchy said: “Tonight has been brilliant. It is always really good when we come to Rochdale; it’s our favourite Christmas lights switch on.”

Salty added: “We had a great reception last year and this year it has been even better.”

Town Centre Manager, Debbie O’Brien summed up the evening when she said: “It has been fantastic. The turnout is fantastic; there is a great atmosphere and a real Christmassy feel.”