Snow fell and fireworks lit up the sky as thousands of revellers turned out for Egremont's Christmas lights switch on event.

Visitors crammed Egremont's Main Street yesterday.

Organisers were thrilled with the event’s success as young and old enjoyed a mini zoo, magic shows and posed for photos in a snow globe.

“It has exceeded our expectations, we’ve had thousands of people here,” said Elaine Woodburn from Egremont Amenity Committee, which organises the event.

“Last time we had about 4,500 people and we’ve had more this time. We’re only a small group of six so it is nice to see all the hard efforts rewarded.

“Feedback has been amazing, we expected it to be busy but not this many people. It’s been worth it.”

Last year’s Christmas Wonderland had to be cancelled due to poor weather with organisers vowing to come back bigger and better.

Bookwell School’s choir, accompanied by Egremont Town Band, kicked off the entertainment with Christmas carols while Pete Moss, from CFM, controlled proceedings.

Local talent D’Bleedin' Blaggards, Step by Step dancers and Whitehaven Theatre Group performed on stage and youngsters enjoyed fairground rides.

Superheroes lined the street as Frozen stars Anna, Elsa and Olaf were joined by Captain America and Spiderman. There was also a street market with more than 60 stalls selling a variety of goods .

Children from the five local primary schools - Bookwell, Orgill, St Bridget’s, Moor Row and Thornhill - hung a Christmas wish on the tree in the Market Place.

The afternoon was rounded off with the lights switch-on, a snow machine and a stunning fireworks finale.

Gary Mayson, of Egremont business Mayson Bros, switched on the lights. He was invited after providing regular support to the amenity committee - giving an annual donation and delivering equipment.

Organiser and Egremont town councillor Sam Pollen said: “The committee would like to say a big thank you to the people of Egremont for their support.

“It is their event and we couldn’t do it without their energy and enthusiasm. There has been lots of smiling faces which is great to see.

“I’d also like to thank the volunteers who have worked hard from 7am to get everything ready.”

The event’s major contributors include Copeland Community Fund, LLWR, Copeland Council and Egremont Town Council.