THOUSANDS of people flocked to Friday s Christmas Lights switch-on in Ely with the X-Factor s Same Difference wowing crowds. A packed Market Square, which played host to a record crowd of more than 7,000 people, was treated to a surprise double performan

THOUSANDS of people flocked to Friday's Christmas Lights switch-on in Ely with the X-Factor's Same Difference wowing crowds.

A packed Market Square, which played host to a record crowd of more than 7,000 people, was treated to a surprise double performance from the pop duo who delighted onlookers with a fun-packed routine, returning to help turn on the lights.

As well as Same Difference, the X-Factor's Cyril and Star Wars actor Warwick Davis also entertained the crowds. The lights were switched on by the gathered stars at 7pm with the streets around the city being bathed in a Christmassy blue and white hue

Event organiser Ian Newstead of the Ely Lions said: "The event this year was a huge success, we are all really pleased with how things went after all the hard work that went into making it run smoothly

"I think Same Difference were brilliant on the night and put on a very polished act and from what I saw people were really enjoying them and all the other acts."

The huge stage in the centre of Market Square was supported by dozens of craft and market stalls which lined the streets around the city. Everything from raffle-tickets to stuffed-animals and roasted chestnuts were available, as well as merry-go-rounds and a helter-skelter.

Earlier in the afternoon people had the chance to enjoy a live nativity near Sacrists' Gate with camels, a donkey and sheep being led up Fore Hill to help re-enact the birth of Jesus.

Despite the success of this year's event, however, organisers are looking to make next year's event even better: "We have already got the stage booked for November 27 next year and we are aiming to top what we have done this year, so who knows who is going to turn up.