THOUSANDS of people headed to Cheshire Oaks as the designer outlet kicked off Christmas with a magical and musical light switch-on event

Last night, a record number of guests visited McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks for the annual switch-on event, which saw Europe’s largest walk-in artificial Christmas tree lit up for all to see.

Hosted by Leanne and Dave from Radio City Breakfast show, guests enjoyed a jam-packed evening of magical and musical performances, plus a surprise appearance from Santa Claus and his elves. The event featured a screening of the iconic Christmas film; The Snowman, with a live orchestra performance.

Guests were impressed by nine-year-old Harry Small, from Knutsford, who moved audiences to tears with his rendition of the legendary song ‘Walking in the Air’.

The event also saw a recital from local theatre school, The Hammond, and a solo performance from the 2016 Britain’s Got Talent finalist, Beau Dermott, who sung ‘The Wizard and I’ from the hit musical Wicked.

Following the performances, Santa Claus and his elves pulled the magic lever to switch on 100,000 twinkling lights across the centre. Firework champions Blitz marked the event with an eight-minute musical firework display to hits from ‘The Greatest Showman’ to light up the centre with a bang.

Throughout the evening, guests were in the festive spirit at the Christmas Corner enjoying the new and expanded community space. This year, the space features an Après ski themed bar selling beers and gluhwein, festive swing grill and sweet treats such as hot chocolate, crepes and pick ‘n’ mix.

With the festive season now underway, throughout November shoppers can enjoy late night shopping as the centre stays open until 9pm on weeknights, extending until 10pm from December. The festivities continue inside the centre, where there are over 145 premium, high street and designer brands for great gifts and festive fashion.