Thousands gathered in Market Place to see the 90s pop group East 17 – renowned for their chart-topping Christmas hit, Stay Another Day – and the Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Norman Dick and Mayoress, Mrs Jean Williamson, to turn on the town’s festive display.
The evening, hosted by BBC Newcastle’s Gilly Hope, included a host entertainment including local performers the Choirmaster group, and the cast of this year’s The Customs House panto, Snow White.
We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite moments from the night, can you spot yourself the crowd?
. South Shields Christmas lights switch on
South Shields Christmas lights switch on at Market Square with East 17, Custom House panto, Santa Claus and the Mayor and Mayoress. | Johnston Press Photo: Stu Norton
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. The countdown
East 17, the cast of Snow White and Santa Claus join the Mayor and Mayoress to switch the Christmas lights on. | Johnston Press Photo: Stu Norton
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. Rocking out
East 17 got the crowd going with their 90s hits. | Johnston Press Photo: Stu Norton
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. Thumbs up
The event got a thumbs up from these youngsters. | Johnston Press Photo: Stu Norton
. Pretty in pink
This little one was dressed for magical evening. | Johnston Press Photo: Stu Norton
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1. The countdown
East 17, the cast of Snow White and Santa Claus join the Mayor and Mayoress to switch the Christmas lights on. | Johnston Press Photo: Stu Norton
.JPG?crop=3:2&trim=&width=640)
2. Rocking out
East 17 got the crowd going with their 90s hits. | Johnston Press Photo: Stu Norton
.JPG?crop=3:2&trim=&width=640)
3. Thumbs up
The event got a thumbs up from these youngsters. | Johnston Press Photo: Stu Norton
4. Pretty in pink
This little one was dressed for magical evening. | Johnston Press Photo: Stu Norton