EAST Yorkshire switched on for Christmas last night with sparkling festivities right across the region.
Thousands turned out to see Christmas lights turned on in towns from east to west – from Withernsea to Goole.
A dazzling array of festive fun lit up the region with glittering events in East Riding towns, including Beverley, Hessle, Hedon and Hornsea, as well as in Hull.
Best-selling local author Val Wood switched on tree lights in Beverley's Wednesday Market, in part of a wave of switch-ons throughout the town centre.
She said: "I attend the lights switch-on every year and marvel at how beautiful Beverley looks, so it is a real honour to turn on the lights in Wednesday Market. The lights are getting better each year with the hard work of the lights group and generous support of local businesses."
Hull FC players were on hand to help bring a bit of festive spirit to two East Yorkshire communities.
Feka Paleaaesina and Aaron Heremaia were among the special guests at Hessle Square for the switch-on.
"I've settled really well into the Hessle area since I arrived a couple of weeks ago and I've really enjoyed my time at the club so far. The players and the coaching staff have welcomed me into the camp, but it was good to get the chance to meet some of the supporters too."
Elsewhere, Kirk Yeaman and James Cunningham helped with the switch-on at the Freedom Centre in Preston Road, east Hull.
"It's always worthwhile to get out into the community, particularly at this time of year when the fans are missing their rugby and can't wait for the new season to start," said Hull centre Mr Yeaman.
"As a local lad, I enjoy having a chat with the supporters about the club and I think it's a big part of being a Hull FC player."
In Hedon, new Mayor Councillor John Dennis was proud to switch-on the town's lights.
He said: "It's great hearing the countdown from the kids and then seeing the Christmas lights in the town."
