Noddy heralds the start of Christmas

THOUSANDS of people lined the streets of the town centre as the Christmas lights switch-on got Oldham’s festive celebrations off to a spectacular start.

The decision to swap the switch-on from Thursday to Sunday to attract more families paid dividends as up to 7,000 gathered around the stage in front of Oldham Parish Church.

Bubbly hosts Jane Hodson and Mark Llewellin kicked off a night of non-stop entertainment as the Wally MacKenzie dance orchestra warmed the crowds up with a medley of traditional Christmas classics.

Young singing sensation Tom Spence then belted out a few more festive favourites.

Even Father Christmas took time out from his busy schedule to greet the cheering children, while Oldham Mayor Shoab Akhtar and Mayoress Shafeena Kausar took to the stage and told the crowd how thrilled they were with the turnout.

And, just as the crowds could not contain their excitement any longer, children’s favourite Noddy made it all the way from Toytown to push the button which lit up Oldham’s streets and triggered a spectacular 10-minute firework display.

Noddy was joined on stage by the Prince and Princess of Tommyfield, Katriona Benbow and Dominic Bailey.

Katriona and Dominic were chosen from hundreds of local youngsters after their parents nominated them in a competition.

Baretrees pupil Dominic (8) lost his father only five weeks ago, but has been an absolute rock for proud mum, Angela Bailey (37).

He said: “I was a bit nervous before I went on stage, but it was very exciting and I’m really looking forward to Christmas.”

Angela, of Washbrook, Chadderton, said: “I was overwhelmed and really emotional when I saw him on stage.

“He’s been an incredibly brave boy. I’m extremely proud.”

Katriona (8), who goes to St Herbert’s School, also shone on the night, after her parents nominated her for being extra specially brave as they battled a catalogue of serious health problems through the year. Her dad, Philip Benbow (51), said: “I have had to go through chemotherapy and radiotherapy after being diagnosed with cancer and this little princess has been just that.

She’s been superb throughout even though we’ve had to cancel lots of things and have been in and out of hospital a lot.

Mum, Patricia Wildy (49), who has also undergone operations this year, said: “She’s just been herself, which has been lovely.”

Katriona said: “It was really fun because I’ve never met a character like Noddy before. I’ve had a lovely time.”

The switch-on launched the Christmas countdown, aimed at luring families to the town centre over the coming weeks, and will include a Victorian weekend and ice rink.