Wolverhampton Christmas lights switch-on: Wolves' Danny Batth and Carl Ikeme join Doreen and Boj for spectacular
Wolves stars Danny Batth and Carl Ikeme joined thousands of people to switch on Wolverhampton's Christmas lights.
Club captain Batth and goalkeeper Ikeme were joined by a host of celebs who braved the November chill and drizzle to mark the countdown to Christmas in the city.
The switch on took place at 6.30pm this evening in Queen Square, with CBeebies character Boj and comedian Doreen, who is appearing in the Grand Theatre's pantomime Aladdin, helping to pull the lever down to turn on the lights.
They were ably assisted by Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Barry Findlay, Mayoress Margaret Findlay and Santa.
The spectacular switch-on, which was hosted by Free Radio, was one of six taking place throughout Wolverhampton in the coming days.
Onlooker Ben Cresswell said: "I'm from Stafford but seeing the one in Wolverhampton, I was surprised.
"It wasn't just bish, bash, bosh. It was good that they had Free Radio involved and I enjoyed it."
The glittering affair included a firework finale, as well as around 30 seasonal market stalls selling local produce and handmade gifts. A mini funfair was also running to entertain the crowds.
Fay Slater, from Slater's Ales, had been out at her stall since 8am.
She said: "It's been really good. Everyone's been really jolly about the Christmas lights being switched on."
The five other evenings of festive celebrations take place in Wednesfield, Bilston, Tettenhall, Bantock Park and at Northycote Farm, where lights are to be switched on by Santa and Councillor Findlay, with lots more free family entertainment on offer at each event.
People can catch the lights being switched on at Wednesfield High Street tomorrow, in Bilston on Church Street on Friday, on Saturday at Upper Green in Tettenhall and Sunday at Bantock Park on Finchfield Road.
The final switch on is at Northycote Farm on December 3 when St Peter's Collegiate Church Choir will sing carols from 3pm and Santa will be in his grotto.
Earlier in the day visitors can join the Friends of Northycote at their annual star dedication from 12pm.
Then, on December 4, Northycote will continue its festivities with a Christmas fair and children's activities.
Entry to all events is free.
Wolverhampton Council is offering free Christmas parking at Fold Street car park from noon on November 30 and December 7, 14 and 21, and all day on Sundays throughout December.