Around 16,500 people thronged into the city centre for the Christmas lights switch-on.

Crowds joined in the countdown as stars from the Alban Arena pantomime turned on the lights in St Peter’s Street from the main stage.

At the same time, St Albans Mayor Cllr Rosemary Farmer switched the lights on at the Clock Tower.

This landmark is being illuminated this year by an eye-catching Christmas Tree projection provided by local firm REWIND, a virtual reality and creative production agency.

The annual event started at noon on Sunday, with the lights being switched on at 5pm.

Councillor Salih Gaygusuz, who is responsible for business and the community, said: “The lights switch-on is a fantastic family event and it always generates a terrific atmosphere.

“This year, we were lucky with the weather as it was a dry, sunny day and the crowds seemed even bigger than usual.

“I thought the lights were excellent and was particularly taken with the stunning Clock Tower projection. This will all help make St Albans a top destination for Christmas shoppers during the festive season benefitting shops, restaurants, bars and the local economy.”

Roads were closed to traffic for a six-hour street party including fairground rides, a Ferris wheel parked in front of the Museum + Gallery, live music and free children’s activities.

There were also stalls selling crafts, seasonal gifts and pop-up bars selling food from from mulled wine, festive cocktails and Indian curries to organic burgers.

Cllr Farmer said: “It was lovely to join the bumper crowds for the start of Christmas festivities in St Albans.

“The lights and the projection onto the Clock Tower looked truly fabulous and it was wonderful to see so many people enjoying themselves.”

St Albans Business Improvement District has largely funded the lights including those that run from the museum to the war memorial.

Helen Burridge, BID Manager, said: “It was wonderful to hear the crowd’s reaction to the clock tower reveal, which will continue to develop and change over the coming weeks.

“Make sure you drop by the Cathedral Quarter to see it in action and thanks again to REWIND for their time and generosity in making it happen!”

  • Cinderella opens at the Alban Arena on Thursday, December 6 and runs until Sunday, January 6, 2019. For more details, see www.alban-arena.co.uk/type/panto/.