Panto magic at Brierley Hill Christmas lights switch on

The Deputy Mayor and Mayoress of Dudley, Councillor Steve Waltho and his wife Jayne were on hand to hit the switch with the help of none other than Father Christmas himself.

Hundreds turned out including the stars of the upcoming Brierley Hill Musical Theatre Company's production of Dick Whittington. The cast of the pantomime arrived in full costume to help out with the festivities.

Jo Gresswell, from the company, said: "It was such a brilliant night and a great event that we love to take part in every year. There was a fantastic turnout and it really brings the community together."

The theatre company has been a regular feature at the Brierley Hill switch-on for the past four years.

"The cast had a lot of fun," Mrs Gresswell, who lives in Kingswinford, said. "They performed some of the songs from the show and also a few popular hits, such as songs by One Direction, which people loved."

Mrs Gresswell was also joined by students from The Bromley Pensnett Primary School, where she works.

"The kids had so much fun," she added. "They were pupils from Years 4, 5 and 6 from the school choir. They had been rehearsing since September and did a brilliant job."

The company's production of Dick Whittington opens on January 10 and runs until the 17th.

The night was MCd by former Beacon Radio presenter Porky, who also made an appearance at the Halesowen lights switch-on in November.

Councillor Waltho said: "It was a brilliant community event with a fantastic turnout.

"There were a lot of local people there which was nice to see. The pantomime cast and the children's choir were great and I think people really enjoyed it.

"It was a wonderful evening and a brilliant start to Christmas for the people of Brierley Hill."

Tickets for the upcoming performance of Dick Whittington at the Brierley Hill Civic Hall can be bought via the box office on 0845 658 8095 or online at www.bhmtc.co.uk