Christmas is officially upon us after a spectacular Christmas lights switch on at the Flag Market.

Hundreds of Prestonians braved the cold to see music and entertainment get the festive season into full swing.

Jack P Shepherd, better known as Coronation Street’s David Platt, flicked the switch to light up the city.

Confetti cannons and artificial snow showered the crowd as the Friargate came to light.

He said: “We’ve been filming Christmas scenes for four months – but this is where it really begins!”

Also at the Flag Market was Edele Lynch from B*witched, singing the 90s hit C’Est La Vie and Gwen Dickie, the voice of Rose Royce, bringing a bit of disco glamour to the event.

There were performances from Preston’s Charlotte Lilly, American soul sensation Renee and The Opera Guy, with CBeebies Andy Day opening the event.

The city’s dignitaries Mayor Trevor Hart and the Lord Lieutenant also got into the festive spirit as they officially welcomed the crowd – with the Lord Lieutenant swapping his usual finery for a Christmas hat.