SIMPLY magical — that was last night's spectacular Christmas lights switch-on in Bolton town centre.

Around 4,000 people gathered to watch local stars of music take to the stage and witnessed popular children's entertainer Katy Ashworth flick the switch.

The CBeebies star was joined by Father Christmas and the Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Martin Donaghy, and Bolton Wanderers manager Neil Lennon.

She said: "I'm slightly nervous, I've turned on the Christmas lights in my home town where there were not many people, but this is in front of a large crowd. I love Bolton, a friend of mine is from Bolton. I love her and everyone in Bolton is like her.

"I was asked to switch on the lights at the food and drink festival, and did not have to think twice.

"Bolton has such a nice vibe."

She added: "It was great to switch on the lights, flabbergasting, it was wonderful — this is what Christmas is all about, the community getting together, it's the start of Christmas, and it is great to be her."

For Mr Lennon the switch-on was his first venture into town. He said: "I've been looking forward to being part of it, it is getting into the Christmas spirit. Christmas lights switch-ons are a great thing — this is getting everyone in the Christmas spirit. It makes you feel like a kid again."

He was joined by Bolton Wanderers legend John McGinlay for the countdown.

Mr McGinlay said: "Christmas lights switch-on is always great. It's fantastic and it hit home that Christmas is just around the corner.

"It great to have Neil here, there is a buzz around town, he has a good response from the town."

Thousands started gathering for the switch-on — one of Bolton's bigger and spectacular events — just before 5pm in preparation for the parade.

Local band Lime Chase got the festivities started with their rendition of Merry Christmas.

Band member Elliot Saunders, aged 19, said: "It was really good, the atmosphere was great, people were jigging along."

Fellow musician Sebastian Meadows, aged 18, added: " It was an honour to be part of the switch-on."

The festive theme continued with popular band The Secrets playing Santa Claus is Coming to Town.

A seasonal favourite was played by 15-year-old Dharma Anders f rom Tonge Moor — fresh from her appearance at the Liverpool One Christmas lights switch-on.

She said: "Everything about it was so good, it was amazing. It was more special because I was performing in Bolton."

Bolton's favourite, Stu Francis, also made an appearance.

He said: "I have missed around three Christmas lights switch-ons in 10 years.

"It is still magical, it is brilliant. This is what Christmas is about — getting everyone together to celebrate the build-up, which is sometimes the best part. The atmosphere is electric and I am excited to be part of it."

The crowd went wild as a dazzling firework display started Christmas with a bang.