Town Centre News

A night to remember - Rochdale celebrates Christmas lights switch on

Posted on 21/11/2011

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 The Christmas lights were officially switched on in Rochdale this weekend (Saturday) as the town kicked off the seasonal celebrations with a night of live music.

X Factor boy band ‘The Risk’ flicked the switch during two hours of entertainment in the town centre.

Thousands turned out to watch the show, headlined by the popular boy band who were eliminated from the X Factor earlier this month after a shock public vote. The boys were delighted to see such a big crowd and performed three songs before turning on the lights alongside the Mayor, Councillor Alan Godson.

The evening, hosted by Gareth Bird and Elliot Eastwick from 96.2 The Revolution, also included a performance by pop singer Alexa Goddard, who got a rousing reception and concluded with her 2010 hit ‘Turn my swag on.’

New band ‘Eli Prime’ proved a hit with the Rochdale crowd, as did surprise guest, X Factor Judges House Act Joe Cox.

Rochdale singer Jade Hegarty relished performing on the big stage, singing ‘Rolling in the Deep’ and ‘Run’. She described the experience as amazing:

“It’s been a brilliant year and to sing at the switch on was the icing on the cake! The atmosphere was superb and I felt really at home. I’d like to thank everyone for their support.”

The Middleton Arena’s cast of ‘Aladdin’ gave the crowd a taste of what they can expect when the pantomime opens next month by performing a couple of lively song and dance routines.

Following the switch on the evening ended with a spectacular firework display.

The event was organised by Rochdale Borough Council and Rochdale Town Centre Management.

Event Manager Debbie O’Brien said she hoped the evening had got people in the mood for Christmas:

“You can see from the looks on people’s faces that they’ve had a great night. We’ve seen some fantastic performances, the weather was kind to us and the crowd was absolutely fantastic. The countdown to Christmas in Rochdale has started! With more than 200 retailers, two indoor shopping centres, a Christmas Market, late night shopping and free parking at weekends and after 3pm, Rochdale is the place to be this Christmas.”

Council Leader Colin Lambert who attended with his family described it as a wonderful evening of family entertainment:

“I’d like to thank all the thousands of people who came and supported the event tonight. I’m sure they enjoyed it, and I hope they will return to see all the other things we have to offer in Rochdale this Christmas.”

The switch on show signaled the start of six weeks of entertainment in town during the run up to Christmas Eve. Street entertainment, guest appearances and live festive music are all lined up.

The Reindeer Parade is back on Sunday 4 December and the popular Christmas market will be staged from Tuesday 20 December until Friday 23 December.

One lucky winner is going to have an extra special Christmas, winning £500 to spend in Rochdale town centre. Just sign up for a Love Rochdale Loyalty card to be entered into the draw.