THE countdown to Christmas has officially begun as Bolton staged its annual Christmas lights switch on.

This year there were no crowds and no fireworks, but the big switch did not fail to impress as people enjoyed it from the safety of their own homes.

Bolton’s well-know faces did the countdown to the big switch on – and this year the town staged the first ever 'One Big Bolton Switch On' with all the borough's festive lights coming on at 7pm.

And residents got into the spirit by switching their fairy lights on at the same time to light up Bolton for Christmas and spread some much needed sparkle.

At 7pm Victoria Square was lit up with an impressive light display, with snowflakes being projected onto the Town Hall.

A video provided a virtual countdown to the switch on, with the mayor of Bolton Cllr Linda Thomas thanking the people of the town for their hard work this year.

She said:"Wishing everyone a safe, peaceful Christmas and a happier and much healthier 2021."

Bolton Hospice also thanked the town's residents and businesses, and Dave Bagley from Urban Outreach delivered his own message.

Organisations took turns into completing the countdown with Bolton FM, Carrs Pasties and Backup all taking part.

Bolton Wanderers and Greenhalgh's bakery made appearances too.

Leader of Bolton Council David Greenhalgh starred in the video with the Town Hall as a backdrop.

Cllr Greenhalgh helped switch on the lights in his own Bromley Cross Ward.

Some business turned on their lights early, with grocers Top Shop on Belmont Road hosting a virtual switch on in November.

Owner Ruth Kay said: "We believe in our community and want to bring a little light into the darkness.”