THOUSANDS packed into Worcester city centre to mark the start of the festive season with the annual Christmas lights switch-on.

Panto favourites Cinderella and Buttons, from the Kay’s Pantomime Company, performed the big switch-on alongside Worcester Mayor Pat Agar outside the Guildhall last night.

The evening’s entertainment kicked off at 4.30pm with acts including Worcester acoustic duo Done by Sunrise dressed in Christmas jumpers, the contemporary Rock Choir decked in tinsel and Free Radio’s HumFree the Hamster.

Hosted by Free Radio presenters Hursty and Helen, the occasion also marked the start of late-night shopping, with the majority of stores staying open until 9pm every Thursday in the run-up to Christmas.

Following the switch-on, children from Martley CE Primary School, who were the 2012 Free Radio Christmas Stars winners, performed three songs.

Phil McMullen, aged 37, who was with his wife Louise and two-year-old son Ellis, of Claines, said: “It’s wonderful. It’s nice for the city, it’s the start of Christmas.

“It’s a nice family vibe and it brings us into the shops.”

Carol Spence, aged 64, of Lower Wick, was at the event with her grandson Joshua, six, and daughter Bridget, 36.

She said: “We love it. We usually come, it’s the start of Christmas.

“It’s the first time we’ve come to the Guild Hall.  There aren’t so many people dressed up this year like in CrownGate.”

Carole Parkinson, of Warndon, was also with her grandsons, Kieran, 10, and Declan, eight, said they were having a great time.

“We come every year,” she said.

“I like the atmosphere. It just gets you going in the mood for Christmas.

"It’s nice to see Hursty and Helen. I listen to them every morning.”

The event was jointly organised by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and the CrownGate shopping centre.

Erica Burlace, CrownGate centre manager, said: “It’s a fabulous turnout. It definitely invites you to start feeling festive.”

Helen Mole, head of events at the chamber, added: “Having the Christmas lights switch-on is very important for the retailers which is why we’re so happy to be involved.”