HUNDREDS turned out to see Hexham's 'biggest ever' Christmas lights switch-on event.

The event, watched by residents and visitors to Hexham, saw Sele park and streets around Hexham brighten up with festive lights, turned on by Hexham's mayor, Derek Kennedy, and special guest - Santa Claus.

The atmosphere was joyful from the start of the night, as Hexham Middle School Ochestra hit all the right notes followed by a disco then a quick photo opportunity with Santa before being treated to a 'A Fairytale of New York' sung by the mayor and town councillor Suzanne Fairless-Aiken. Then there came the big countdown for the lights switch on.

Crowds then made their way to Hexham market to see the 32-foot Norway Spruce Tree from Kielder Forest which was placed in front of Hexham Abbey and donated by Egger Ltd.

Many then enjoyed listening to Prudhoe Community Band as they looked for great deals and present ideas in the late night shopping event.

Speaking about the night, Derek Kennedy said: "We've put more effort it in, more lights and spent more money. We had the HMS orchestra, disco then we had star of the show, Santa, coming along!

"We thank Egger for their donation of a wonderful tree that has now been lit up. 

"We had Prudhoe Community Band playing under the Shambles as visitors shopped at the local traders in the town who stayed open for the late night shopping event after the light switch-on."

Cllr Fairless-Aitken also comments on the success and said: "Well it looked like the biggest ever turnout for our new lights switch on this year... what an atmosphere! Santa was delighted.

"We just hope the good folks of Hexham love the new look Egger tree and all the glitz and sparkle. Next year... even more! We are so lucky to live here. Merry Christmas!"

Janie French from Visit Hexham added: "We had a wonderful turn out for Christmas Lights 2023 - I haven't seen it so busy before and there were lots of happy faces at the two lights switch-ons.

"Prudhoe Community Band brought a lovely atmosphere to the marketplace with their festive tunes, the launch of the Magical Music Trail went well, and Hexham's new Christmas lights are simply beautiful."