REVELLERS at Wrexham’s Christmas lights switch-on were in party mood as they ushered in the festive season.

Several thousand people braved the elements to enjoy a diverse line-up of entertainment and the traditional fireworks show which made for one of the most memorable switch-ons of recent times.

There was plenty to entertain the crowds in a fun-packed schedule, which was hosted by Lois and Oli from Heart FM’s roadshow.

Stephen Lee, 68, from Coedpoeth has been attending the town’s switch-on for many years, but this year’s was an even bigger draw for him as his family, son, Stephen, his wife, Kay and daughter, Megan were on stage rocking it in the good ol’ country style with local group Blue Genes.

“Wrexham’s lights switch-on is always a good show and I make sure I come every year. My family were up on stage so there was an added attraction this year,” he said. “There is always plenty to see and the fireworks are spectacular to round it off.”

Leanne Jones, 45, from Wrexham echoed similar sentiments when she said: “Wrexham does the lights really well and there is plenty to see. It puts you in the mood for Christmas.

“I know John Durham who is one of the singers performing too and he is very good.”

Among the highlights of the night was an accomplished Stereophonics tribute from The Phonics and some classy choreography from the Coleg Cambria Dance Group as well as performances from Lady and the Tramps and Mia Lynch as well as a preview of the Stiwt’s panto show 'Jack and the Beanstalk'.

There were fairground rides and Christmas food stalls and the night was capped by the firework display from Festival Fireworks after a mystery Father Christmas had pressed the button to switch on the lights.

It was the third year the switch-on was organised by volunteers from Wrexham Glyndwr Rotary Club with support from Wrexham Council’s events team.

Last year’s event raised £2,000 for charities and this year all the cash raised is being funnelled towards homelessness charities working in the town.

Sam Foulkes, event manager, said: “All monies raised will go to ‘Wrexham Homeless – People Helping People’ and we were really delighted the local community rallied around and attended what was an action-packed night of festive fun.”

The evening was sponsored by Wrexham Prestige Taxis and Parallel Security Ltd.