South Shields Christmas lights switch on at Market Square with East 17, Custom House panto, Santa Claus and the Mayor and Mayoress.South Shields Christmas lights switch on at Market Square with East 17, Custom House panto, Santa Claus and the Mayor and Mayoress.
South Shields Christmas lights switch on at Market Square with East 17, Custom House panto, Santa Claus and the Mayor and Mayoress.

13 pictures from South Shields Christmas light switch on - can you spot yourself in the crowd?

The countdown to the festive season got off with a bang as East 17 switched on the Christmas lights in South Shields.

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?