REWIND: Wigan Christmas lights switch-on events from over the years

Feeling festive? Here is a selection of photographs to get you in the mood from our archives featuring Christmas illuminations switch-ons in Wigan from 1990s through to 2015.

By Sian Jones

Published 22nd Nov 2023, 04:55 GMT

Updated 23rd Nov 2023, 11:39 GMT

This year’s event takes place on November 25 featuring a stage show with Katy Ashworth and Hacker T Dog from CBeebies and Andy Bennett from Ocean Colour Scene.

McFly switch on the Wigan Christmas lights, together with the Mayor, Coun John Hilton in 2004

1. RETRO

McFly switch on the Wigan Christmas lights, together with the Mayor, Coun John Hilton in 2004 Photo: FRANK ORRELL.

LTR: Katie Hetherington, Karen Benbow, Emma Pryle, Grace power and Katie House at Wigan Christmas Light switch on 2007

2. RETRO

LTR: Katie Hetherington, Karen Benbow, Emma Pryle, Grace power and Katie House at Wigan Christmas Light switch on 2007 Photo: PAUL GREENWOOD

Switching on the lights in 2003 Billy Boston, Mike Gregory, Mayor and Mayoress Councillor Wilf and Mrs Agnes Brogan and Father Christmas

3. RETRO

Switching on the lights in 2003 Billy Boston, Mike Gregory, Mayor and Mayoress Councillor Wilf and Mrs Agnes Brogan and Father Christmas Photo: Gerald Webster

Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee turn on the lights in 2007

4. RETRO

Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee turn on the lights in 2007 Photo: PAUL GREENWOOD