Peter Andre switches on Telford’s Christmas lights

Hundreds of people joined in the fun at Red Oak Car Park, as the event marked the launch of Telford’s Christmas countdown.

The star took a break from his hectic Strictly Come Dancing schedule and rehearsals for his upcoming live tour to appear on stage at Telford Shopping Centre’s biggest ever switch on.

Peter led the countdown to the big switch-on together with CBeebies presenter, Alex Winters, who made a welcome return to Telford to host the event for the second consecutive year.

In the build-up to the countdown, Alex was joined on stage by a host of performers including Bread and Butter, members of the cast of this year’s Oakengates Theatre Panto – Snow White, and the town’s sporting superstars, Telford Tigers.

During the event Peter Andre backed Telford Tigers’ bid to win a second English Premier League title in succession.

Andre, who was presented with a Tigers shirt numbered 73 – and wore it on stage – said: “I love helping out at events like this, when I get out and meet my real fans.

“Christmas is such a special time of year, and to help Telford celebrate the start of the festive season was a real privilege.

“The guys from Telford Tigers are a great bunch and it sounds like they had a wonderful season last year, winning the league.

“It was great to meet them back stage and they’ve got every chance of doing it again. I wish them all the luck in the world.”

Tracy Hadley, Marketing and Events Manager at Telford Shopping Centre, added: “There has been so much buzz around this year’s switch on and Peter Andre did not disappoint. He was an absolute star and the crowd loved him – he got a rapturous response!

“Alex Winters and other firm favourites such as Bread and Butter, the Snow White cast and Telford Tigers were also a big hit with the crowd; and everyone helped to make this a truly memorable evening for Telford.”