Thousands celebrate switch on

Thousands of people gathered in Kettering's Market Place to watch this year's Christmas lights switch on.

The lights were turned on by community heroes Kelly Mercer and Sebastian Nunney who were selected by the Mayor of Kettering after being nominated by the community.

Crowds were entertained by stars of the Lighthouse Theatre's panto, local singers and dancers – as well enjoying music provided by compere Bill Burton and local band Friday Night Konspiracy.

Roaming street entertainment was on offer as well as model railway rides, a light-up table football tournament, traditional brass music from Kettering Town Silver Band and Santa's light-up selfie sleigh.

Cllr Craig Skinner, chairman of the council's Markets and Events Committee, said: "This is the first year the town council has taken on the Christmas Lights Switch On and this year we are making the event a real celebration of the town.

"The stallholders and food traders are all small business from Kettering and the surrounding area, the entertainment is all from Kettering people and we are pleased to feature two true town heroes to turn on the lights."

See the picture special from Northants Evening Telegraph below...