There was no shortage of festive cheer in St Albans yesterday (Sunday) when the city’s Christmas lights were switched on.

Residents flocked to the city centre for a day of festive entertainment including displays from local performing arts groups, funfair rides and a food market.

Eileen Harris, the mayor of St Albans, had the honour of switching on the lights with the help of some of the stars of this year’s pantomime.

She said: “There was an amazing crowd.

“The amount of people in the city centre was fantastic. I couldn’t believe it.

“People turned up in their droves.

“It was a really lovely community occasion.”

Activities began at 11am yesterday and the countdown for the light switch-on took place at 5.30pm.

CBebbies’ star Phil Gallagher, who is starring in this year’s pantomime Aladdin, joined the mayor to turn the lights on.

Councillor Harris added: “People were really excited.

“Lots of people were queuing up to have pictures with him after.

“The cheer when the lights went on was deafening.

“There was a lovely atmosphere.”