Stars of Shrewsbury’s panto have praised the town and its Christmas lights after taking to the stage to switch them on.

Crowds turned out to enjoy a festive atmosphere as more than 80,000 lights, which have been put up across the town, including 2,000 lamps in the main tree in the Square alone, were switched on yesterday.

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Cast members from Robin Hood, the final pantomime to be held at Shrewsbury Music Hall, took to a stage in the Square alongside Severn radio station presenters to switch on the lights.

Jim Alexander, who has appeared in London’s Burning and The Bill and plays the title role of Robin Hood, described the lights and festive town spirit as “impressive”.

Katie Leigh, who plays Maid Marion, said she was proud to be involved in the lights switch on.

“It’s an absolute honour and means I get to put my costume on again,” she said.

“To see the turnout is amazing.

“It’s such a beautiful place here and to see Christmas get under way in Shrewsbury is great.”

Severn radio station presenters Martin Childs and Neil Bentley joined four of the cast members on stage, including Ben Nickless, who plays Will Scarlet, and Mark Hastings, who plays the Dame Nurse Annie Fanny.

Mr Nickless told the crowd: “Shrewsbury is the best place to do panto in the country.” Families enjoyed the festivities, which included a variety of entertainment.

Louise Cheadle, from Sundorne, said she enjoyed the entertainment and lights switch-on. 

She said: “They were very good. The lights are lovely. It’s got us into the Christmas spirit.”

By John Kirk