KNUTSFORD’S Christmas light switch-on went ahead on Saturday despite the looming threat of bad weather which saw the rest of the weekend cancelled.

The markets, which were scheduled to take place in Knutsford town centre throughout the weekend, were called off on Sunday due to high winds.

But the show started with a flourish on Saturday night, as the mayor, Cllr Tony Dean, was joined by Father Christmas, reigning Royal May Queen Sofia Chowdry and Silk FM’s Cheshire the Cat to flick the switch and light up the town for the festive season.

There was entertainment from an array of performers including Tatton Singers, local school choirs, the Knott Singers and Knutsfordian Simon Crump.

“We had a great turnout for the switch on despite the rain and the entertainment on the stage was a fantastic display of the local talent we have in Knutsford,” said Adam Keppel-Garner, Knutsford town clerk.

“It was with regret that we had to take the decision to cancel the market on Sunday, the forecast increased overnight such that staging the event would have been a risk to visitor and trader safety.

“I hope that everyone who attended on Saturday had a fantastic time and will turn out again for the Lantern Parade and Crib Service this Saturday.”

Hundreds of people turned up to the markets to get a taste of festive fair, including food and drink stands which were in the hot food quarter on Silk Mill Street.

Knutsford traders and businesses from across Cheshire, had the opportunity to sell a variety of produce from gifts to mulled wine.