HUNDREDS of excitable Santa Claus fans gathered to watch music stars turn on this year's Christmas lights.

And this year crowds were treated to a firework display as well to welcome in the season.

Taking the helm this year was Mason Watts from Sholing was given the honour of actually pressing the button - while pop legend Suzanna Shaw of former band Hearsay was also there as guest of honour.

And pantomime dame Andrew Ryan - who will be taking to the stage this year at Mayflower Theatre - was handed a pair of skates for a special turn on Westquay's ice rink.