WINCHESTER Christmas lights switch on event has been hailed a success those is crown enjoying the entertainment. 

Winchester BID held its Winchester Christmas Lights Switch On event following months of anticipation on Thursday, November 14.

At 6:30pm George Hatt, a young man suffering from an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer, turned on the lights on the High Street and the Guildhall.

Read more: Winchester’s Christmas Market has started taking shape

The BID's event was hosted by Heart Radio's Jonny Meah and saw performances from The Pilgrims’ School Chamber Choir, Harestock Primary School Choir, Osborne School’s Rubik’s Cube, Winchester Rock Choir, Theatre Royal Winchester, Winchester A Capella, Integr8 Dance, Love Soul Choir, Diva Academy and New York City ‘Breaking’.

Emma and Keith enjoyed the eveningEmma and Keith enjoyed the evening (Image: Charles Elliman) Emma and Keith Baker, 48 and 53, from Chandler's Ford were at the switch on event to see their daughter perform and said: "It's lovely and festive! A good atmosphere."

Sam Pollard, 17 and Michael Hodge, 17, both enjoyed the lights but thought the music could have done with a bit more drum and bass.

Michael also thought, although the show was fun and cool, it was a bit too early for Christmas lights but said: "I'm the Grinch of Christmas!"

PC Sam McAvoy, watching on from the sidelines, said: "I think was alright! Very, very good. Very busy, but no issue."

The police were on hand to help The police were on hand to help (Image: Charles Elliman) Read more: Winchester Christmas lights switch-on event on November 14

Emma Menzies, Partner and Chair of Dutton Gregory Solicitors, who sponsored this year's event said: "The Christmas Lights ‘Switch On’ always marks the official start of the festive season in Winchester, so Dutton Gregory is delighted to be continuing its sponsorship of the event for a fifth year, and grateful to the team at Winchester BID for its work in creating a celebration that brings so many people in the city together.

"As a busy and eventful year draws to a close, we wish our clients, Winchester’s business community and residents a very happy and peaceful Christmas."

Next on the calendar for fans of Christmas in Winchester will be the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market, which runs from Friday, November 22 to Sunday, December 22.