CHORLEY'S festive season got under way with a wet -- but jolly -- lights switch-on.

As with the recent street fair, the rain threatened to make the whole event a wash-out, but hardy Chorley folk turned out in their hundreds to make sure it went with a bang.

Sheltering under umbrellas and whatever cover they could find, crowds enjoyed the spectacle as Emmerdale star Viv Windsor arrived at Market Walk in a horse-drawn dray.

After a few delays because of the rain, Viv -- played by actress Deena Payne -- joined Chorley Mayor Tom McGowan to brave the downpour and push the button that threw light over the town.

Deena was accompanied by the cast of this year's Chorley pantomime (Cinderella), and even Father Christmas himself joined in the fun.

This year's lights have been dedicated to Chorley's Olympic heroes, cyclist Jason Queally and horsewoman Jeanette Brakewell. SWITCHED on: actress Deena Payne who plays Emmerdale postmistress Viv Windsor --Picture by Jack Pell