CHRISTMAS arrived in Huddersfield at the weekend when the town’s lights were switched on.

Thousands of people braved the chilly weather to pack into The Piazza for the big event on Saturday.

Click here to see pictures from the big switch on.

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CBeebies star Mr Bloom pushed the switch to light up the town at 6.30pm.

Played by Ben Faulkes, Mr Bloom is famed for his programme Mr Bloom’s Nursery.

The telly gardener proved a massive draw for his little fans who queued to catch a glimpse of him during his half-hour set.

Many parents admitted that their star-struck children were the reason for them attending the festive event.

Richard Lindley, of Slaithwaite, attended with his wife Emilia and their children Thomas, seven, Jessica, eight, and 11-year-old Lucy.

He said: “This is the first time we’ve been to a switch-on and the reason is Mr Bloom.

“Our youngest especially loves him and wants to get his autograph.”

Danicka Taylor, of Slaithwaite, brought her children Summer, six, and Spencer, nine, along to watch.

She said: “They were so excited to see him and it’s nice to bring them out now they’re a bit older.

“We usually go to the switch-on in our village which is in December, but this is the first time we’ve been to the one in town.

“We didn’t expect it to be so busy and it’s nice to see so many people out with their families.”

Tasmin Burke, of Meltham, who attended with her 11-month-old daughter Raphaella, said she was amazed by how many people turned out for the event.

She said: “It’s been absolutely packed but the atmosphere was brilliant.”

The entertainment began two hours before the main event with a roadshow by Pulse Radio.

Dancers and singers from Kirklees College performed on stage and Town players also showed their support after the final whistle of their home game.

Children were asked to look for Santa and his friends on the shop roofs before the countdown chants began.

Lightsabers and balloons were waved excitedly as the crowd waited for the lights to come on.

Berry Brow mum Michelle Tarbatt said afterwards that the show had impressed her.

Michelle, with her husband Carl and their son Oliver who will be one on Christmas Day, said: “It was fantastic. They’ve done really well to put this on and have done Yorkshire proud.

“I thought the idea of the kids looking for Santa at the end was great.

“I can’t believe how many people came and it makes you realise that they should do more events in Huddersfield.”

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