Christmas arrived in Wolverhampton when the actor Paul Nicholas switched on the city’s annual lights’ display in front of hundreds of excited people.

Last night the switch that lit 9,000 bulbs was thrown by the thespian, starring in Peter Pan at the Grand Theatre, alongside sporting legends Hugh Porter and Anita Lonsbrough and X-Factor hopeful Liam Payne.

Crowds gathered in Market Square from 5pm to see the spectacle  which has seen around 3,000 metres of lights rigged throughout the city. Wolves players Matt Jarvis and Karl Henry also put in an appearance to sign autographs for fans.

Midfielder Jarvis said: “It’s a really good turnout, it’s nice to see everyone getting into the spirit of it.”

Liam Payne, a 15-year-old pupil at St Peter’s Collegiate School who reached the boot camp stages of the television talent show, sang three songs for the crowd.

He said: “I’ve been really busy since X-Factor. It’s been a bit of a struggle finishing my coursework and I’ve got parents’ evening coming up so I’m not looking forward to what the teachers have to say.”

Dressed as Captain Hook Paul Nicholas, who turns 63 next week, said: “I love hearing all the boos.”

“We’re rehearsing in London at the moment and it’s going very well. Captain Hook is a brilliant character to play because I can turn up and be as grumpy as I like and it’s all part of the show.

“This year the children get to pelt me with rocks so it’s a good chance for them to let off some steam.”

Peter Pan opens at the Grand Theatre next week. Cycling legend Hugh Porter and his former Olympic swimming medallist wife Anita Lonsbrough were also on stage.

The couple still live in Tettenhall and provided commentary for TV coverage of the Beijing Olympics.

Mr Porter, 68, said: “We’re very honoured to have been asked to take part. We’re both proud Wulfrunians.”

Enjoying the event were Stephen Murror, 25, daughter Evelyn, two, and partner Kelly Downs of Wednesfield.

Around £160,000 was spent on the lights, which will be on until January 6.