IT was beginning to look a lot like Christmas over the weekend when the festive lights were switched on at the Middlebrook Retail and Leisure Park.

Visitors had the chance to meet Santa and his reindeer at the annual event, with a parade taking place at 4pm on Saturday.

Mince pies and non-alcoholic mulled wine were handed out to the crowds.

A town crier opened the stage show, with families enjoying live performances from Horwich Brass Band, Little Mix Tribute, Little Chix, and various local acts.

X Factor and The Voice contestants Kayleigh Taylor and Scott Chapman also took to the Tower FM stage, hosted by Matt Monroe.

Competition winner Harry O'Donnell, aged five, won the chance to ride up front in Santa's sleigh and was also given the honour of turning on the sparkly Christmas lights at 5pm.

The youngster from Walkden was entered into a prize draw after spotting Max the Middlebrook Moose hiding in several of the shopping outlets. Of three shortlisted finalists, Harry was then able to guess the most Christmas songs.

Heather Crank-Ingham, retail, marketing and PR manager of The Emerson Group, who manage the retail park, said: "There was a huge turnout. We had a fantastic response this year.

"It was an all-round good community event with local acts and entertainers. There was a really good stage show, starring ex-Voice contestant Scott Chapman and X Factor's Kayleigh Taylor. We also had Lofty the Lion, Stars and Cars, balloon modelling and sci-fi characters.

"Harry was so exited to see Santa and ride on his sleigh. It was a fabulous success."

Bolton Wanderers mascot Lofty the Lion was on hand to meet fans at the event, handing out tickets for the upcoming game against Wigan Athletic. Bolton singer songwriter Emilia Ward concluded the show with a range of festive numbers.