CHORLEY town centre was transformed into a scene of fabulous festivity when Emmerdale star Nicola Wheeler, who plays her namesake, switched on the Christmas lights.

The big event -- at Market Walk Shopping Centre -- was attended by thousands of local folk, and the Mayor of Chorley Dennis Edgerley.

Live music and a fun procession of characters from Alice in Wonderland, from QS Fashion store to Market Walk, also entertained the crowds.

Pat Duckett, manager of the Market Walk Shopping Centre, said: "We had around 2,000 people lining the route of the procession and the characters intermingled with the crowd.

"It was a successful day and Nicola signed autographs for people until late on. She was a very popular guest."

Following the switch on there will be entertainment on Market Walk on a number of Sundays and Thursdays leading up to Christmas.

Jose Hampson, secretary of Chorley and District Chamber of Trade, said: "There was a big crowd on Market Street. We had Ken Dodd last year and that was absolutely busy. We were pleasantly surprised at the number of people who came in.

"It was a nice night and it all went very well. It is getting a really popular annual event.