THE lights are going up all across the town.

There were Christmas lights switch-ons in Horwich, Blackrod and Astley Bridge, while youngsters at Seven Acres Country Park got to meet real reindeer.

Santa saved the day at the Astley Bridge switch-on after a power cut left guests worrying the trees would not be illuminated at all.

But Saint Nick arrived and sprinkled a little Christmas magic over proceedings just in time for the big switch-on.

Volunteers showed their festive spirit by handing out free mulled wine, mince pies, tangerines and soft drinks.

Cllr Hilary Fairclough, chairman of Friends of Astley Bridge, said between 1,500 and 2,000 people attended the event.

She said: “Once again the Christmas switch-on was a resounding success — the biggest and best yet.

“It was a really good community event.”