Bury Christmas lights are lit up in town after evening of music

Rain drizzled at times during the event which started at 2pm, but this did not deter the crowd as they gathered to listen to the singing and dancing, by the likes of Olivia, a young singer who won the Radcliffe’s Got Talent competition last month after performing Adele’s Rolling in the Deep.

Christmas songs were blasted through the speakers and performances from the Carol Godby Theatre and Bury Music Service.

One woman who came for the first time to watch her daughter perform, said: “I watched my daughter dance on stage, she’s from Woodbank Primary School.

“It’s been really good, and all the performances were good. They are very brave, especially from the younger ones as my daughter is only eight.

“It’s a good turnout as well despite the weather and it being bonfire weekend, but everyone is getting into the Christmas period."

The Christmas lights were switched on by nominated local hero, Les Edwards of Seedfield Sports Juniors FC.

The grassroots football club has received huge support after "mindless acts of violence” prevented hundreds of young footballers from playing.

Around £20,000 worth of equipment was reported to have been stolen from the club when five pitches were destroyed on October 12, but despite this, Les has continued to support the teams and provide the opportunity for young players.

Along with a Christmas Tree at The Rock Shopping Centre, there is a giant lit Christmas present outside Dunkin Donuts, and a snowflake arch near H&M.

Lights are also hung above the shops in a row.

People cheered and stopped to take pictures at the light installations across the town.

One dad with his children, said: “Bury always comes out for this and it’s always done nicely.

“My daughter wants a picture with the present now it’s got lights and it’s just a fun way to get them into Christmas as well.

“We’re all having a really good time, and all the singers were fantastic, my daughter loved the Frozen performances.”