Crowds flock to Greenock Christmas lights switch on

Panto celebrities including Still Game's Mark Cox and fellow Beacon panto favourite Lee Samuel helped Santa and Provost Drew McKenzie push the button.

Clyde Square was transformed into a winter wonderland with a brass band and carol singing at Clyde Square.

Provost Drew McKenzie said there was a real festive feelgood factor at the event.

He told the Tele: "The weather was dry and the square was packed. It was such a good atmosphere, all the kids enjoyed it.

"We had the panto stars who are putting on Beauty and the Beast at the Beacon and Santa who helped push a special plunger which was made by Inverclyde Shed, and West FM and Clyde 1 radio presenter Alison Wright compering."

Brass Sounds Inverclyde hit the right note with traditional festive songs to get everyone warmed up and two of Santa's reindeer made an appearance, delighting the youngsters in the square.

The crowd clad in hats and scarves braved biting cold as they got into the Christmas spirit.

Meanwhile Santa's helpers were working behind the scenes serving up hot chocolate at Wellpark Mid Kirk to keep revellers warm, followed by a carol service afterwards at the church.

It was the first of a series of switch-on events taking place locally, with Gourock next up tonight from 6pm at Kempock Gardens.

Provost McKenzie said: "I think it's nice that we have a switch on in all the towns. People turn out for it and the kids love it. I think it could be expanded. It's good family fun."

It is Port Glasgow's turn on Wednesday at 6pm outside the library, then on Friday December 1, switch-on ceremonies will be held at Inverkip at 5.30pm, Kilmacolm at the Cargill Centre at 6pm and Wemyss Bay Community Centre at 7pm.