Thousands of people flocked to Mansfield town centre yesterday to enjoy a day of festive fun and the spectacular Christmas lights switch on.

Mansfield’s countdown to Christmas started with a Christmas market, a prince and princess workshop at the Four Seasons Shopping Centre, a concert and a screening of the film ‘Frozen’ in the market place.

Families were also entertained by a Christmas parade led by the Nottinghamshire Police Pipe Band from St John Street to the Buttercross, where stars from the Palace Theatre’s pantomime ‘Sleeping Beauty’ arrived by horse and carriage and were joined by CBeebies’ Mike the Knight and Santa.

The Big Switch On stage show in front of the Town Hall, hosted by Mansfield 103.2, got the crowds into a party mood with performances by local singer songwriter Ben Haynes and The Fabulous Tabbykatz.

Panto stars, Mike the Knight, Miss Mansfield Jessica Boot and Youth Mayor Danielle Bridges then switched on a magnificent array of Christmas lights, signalling the start of a fantastic firework display.

Deputy Mayor of Mansfield District Council, Roger Sutcliffe said: “It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying the Big Switch On. This popular event marks the beginning of late night shopping every Thursday between now and Christmas and I would like to invite all shoppers to make the most of Mansfield’s excellent retail facilities.

“I would also like to thank the Christmas lights committee, our sponsors and Mansfield District Council staff for all their hard work in putting this festive show together.”

The event is organised by Mansfield District Council and the Four Seasons Shopping Centre with support from Mansfield 103.2, 6 five 2s Taxis, Fresh Start Recruitment and Mansfield BID.

If you attended The Big Switch On 2014, we would like to hear from you to help us improve future events. Please fill in the brief evaluation form at www.mansfield.gov.uk/switchon Your name will be entered into a prize draw with the chance to win a £50 Four Seasons Shopping Centre gift card.

Photos of the event can be seen at www.facebook.com/mymansfielduk