The festive season has officially started in Newcastle as our lights get switched on tonight.
After Fenwick's unveiled their Snowman-themed window, it's now time for the rest of Newcastle to get into the Christmas spirit.
This year's festive celebrations had a sporting theme, with professional rugby players replacing the usual singers and presenters.
Rugby stars Toby Flood and Will Welch, who play for the Newcastle Falcons were the star guests at the switch-on on Thursday evening.
Former England rugby international Flood plays fly half or inside centre for the Falcons, while Will Welch captains the team and plays as a flanker.
In previous years, the lights have been turned on by former X-Factor contestants Joe McElderry and Samantha Lavery.
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33 magical pictures of the Christmas lights
The festive season is officially under way in Newcastle.
A massive crowd gathered on Grey Street to see the Christmas lights switched on on Thursday night.
Thousands of people whooped and cheered as the countdown hit zero and the city was illuminated.
Newcastle Falcons players Toby Flood and Will Welch were on hand to push the button after a night of entertainment from Metro Radio.
Theatre Royal pantomime favourites Clive Webb and Danny Adams also joined in the festivities with the crowd.
The event was associated with child welfare charity NSPCC, who is running its annual Christmas appeal.
Full story here.
NSPCC sponsoring the event
Jackie Dawson, NSPCC Community Fundraising Manager for the North East of England, said:
“We were delighted to support the Christmas lights switch-on in Newcastle this year.
“It’s such a great event to be involved with, and we would like to thank all those who, while enjoying the festivities, generously donated and spared a moment to think about the children who won’t be enjoying Christmas this year.
“The NSPCC’s Christmas Appeal is shining a light on the issue of neglect. We know that one in 10 children in the UK experiences it, and for a child who has been neglected Christmas is yet another cold, dark and lonely time. But with your support, we can turn their lives around.
“Anyone who has concerns that a child is experiencing neglect or abuse, can contact the NSPCC’s free and confidential helpline on 0808 800 5000. To support the NSPCC, please visit nspcc.org.uk/donate.”
What time is the switch on and where is it?
The switch-on is set to take place on Thursday, November 8, at Grey’s Monument.
The lights will be flicked on at 6.30pm.
The celebrities who will switch-on Newcastle's Christmas lights
This year’s festive celebrations will have a sporting theme, with professional rugby players replacing the usual singers and presenters.
The switch will be flicked by Newcastle Falcons rugby players Toby Flood and Will Welch.
Former England rugby international Flood plays fly half or inside centre for the Falcons, while Will Welch captains the team and plays as a flanker.
In previous years, the lights have been turned on by former X-Factor contestants Joe McElderry and Samantha Lavery.
A spokesperson for the council said:
“It’s starting to feel very festive in Newcastle, and next week we switch on the city’s Christmas Lights.
“We are excited to announce our Falcons Rugby favourites Toby Flood and Will Welch will be joining us for the occasion.”