Thousands enjoy lots of festive fun at Cockermouth lights switch on

Mayor Julie Laidlow reckoned there was up to 4,000 people packed on to Main Street, enjoying all the entertainment, stalls and goodies on offer.

Mayor Julie Laidlow and grandson Hugo at the switch on (Image: Cockermouth Town Council)

There was also lots going in the United Reformed Church, organised by Churches Together in the Cockermouth Area.

"It was fabulous, a fantastic day," said Cllr Laidlow.

"The weather wasn't great so we were worried people might not come along until later - but not at all. There was a great turnout from early on."

The Grinch was the star of the show, she reckoned.

The Grinch got lots of laughs (Image: Cockermouth Town Council)

"I invited him on stage before the countdown, along with children from the town schools. We had everyone singing We Wish You a Merry Christmas, it was brilliant."

The entertainment - organised by the town council - start with the Dancing Divas, who took to the stage on Main Street.

The funfair proved popular (Image: Trevor Earthy)

They were followed by Stagecoach Theatre, carols with Cockermouth Mechanics Band, Luke Matear and Sneaky Finch - all warming the crowds up before the big countdown to switch on at 5pm.

Santa was kept busy in his grotto and supported by some Round Table elves (Image: Cockermouth Round Table)

Lots of local groups and charities had stalls. Santa was kept busy in his grotto, supported by Cockermouth Round Table, who were also selling mulled wine.