HUNDREDS of people braved the elements to take part in Yeadon’s lights switch on.

The chairman of the lights committee Cllr Colin Campbell described Friday’s event as a “great start to Christmas in Yeadon.”

He said: “It was a great evening and I would like to thank all the volunteers who gave up their time to make it such a success.

“There were charity stalls, rides, face painting and crafts in the library, along with the cast of Yeadon’s panto Aladdin. Also people in Yeadon must have been very good this year because Father Christmas gave up time in his busy schedule to come along.”

He added: “We had a great evening, compered by Ryk Downes with carols sung by St Oswalds Choir, followed by modern Christmas favourites from Frankie Bownes -this years Leeds Breeze winner - and Yeadon’s own Peace Academy.

“The high spot was as always local school children who lead the community singing and introduced Evie and James this year’s Carnival Queen and King who turned on the lights.”

Leeds North West MP Alex Sobel said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere at the Yeadon Christmas lights switch on. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet with volunteers who give up so much of their time to bring Christmas spirit to the town. I think a special mention has to go to all the wonderful performances from the children who brought an extra sparkle to a night of lights.”