7 pictures as Hereford's Christmas lights are switched on

A reported 4,000 people - the biggest ever who have watched the annual event - packed the city centre this afternoon (November 19). 

The Mayor of Hereford, Coun Jacqui Carwardine, and Father Christmas helped turn on the lights shortly after 5pm.

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However, the crowd were in for a treat as 1980s pop star Rick Astley appeared on the video screen to help count down the clock.

Prior to the switch-on, there were a number of musical performances. The headline act was Let Loose, who gained fame in the 1990s. 

However, they have just made a comeback, with the news gaining the attention of Netflix. The American streaming giants joined them on stage to film their performance as part of a documentary.

Below are some pictures of Hereford's lights.

The lights are shining in Widemarsh Street (Image: Hereford Times)

Commercial Street is looking festive (Image: Hereford Times)

The lights in Hereford High Town (Image: Hereford Times)

The Christmas tree in Hereford High Town (Image: Hereford Times)

The Christmas lights in High Town (Image: Hereford Times)

There are two Christmas trees in the Old Market (Image: Hereford Times)

The Christmas lights in Hereford's Old Market, near the Odeon cinema (Image: Hereford Times)