Martin Kemp strikes gold entertaining thousands for Christmas Light switch-on

Martin Kemp wowed the crowds of Accrington as over 12,000 people turned out to watch his fantastic ‘Back to the Eighties Show’ at the #AmazingAccrington Christmas Light Switch On.

The musician, actor and Spandau Ballet star took to the stage at 7pm and put on a DJ performance to remember, with those attending singing and dancing along to classics from the 80s.

That performance ended an incredible night of entertainment in the town, with visitors enjoying almost four hours of non-stop entertainment on the mega main stage.

The line-up saw dance performances, fire breathers, Frozen sing-a-longs, spoken word performances, football giveaways with Accrington Stanley and Accrington Stanley Women, drummers, singers, a collective school choir and an ABBA tribute, ahead of Martin Kemp’s stunning performance.

Ending with a sensational fireworks display and snow machine, Accrington enjoyed a spectacular start to the festive season.

Alongside the live entertainment, there was fairground rides on Broadway and Union Street, a Santa’s grotto, food and craft stalls, plus a roaming Tuk Tuk bar from Accrington business Tiger Lounge.

In the Arndale, there was charity stalls, singing from Maggy Conanan and the Brave Church Choir, plus photo opportunities with Santa, while there was also a meet and greet with footballers from Accrington Stanley at the OASST shop.

Murray Dawson, chair of #AmazingAccrington, said: “A lot of work has gone into organising this event, but wow was it worth it. People have flocked to the town centre in their thousands and enjoyed an incredible night.

“Thank you to everyone who supported this event, it has been magnificent!”

Eddy O’Brien, CEO of iMEP International Music Event Production, said: “What a tremendous performance by Martin Kemp. A very popular headliner, we are proud to have helped bring another international artist to Accrington.”

Cllr Kimberley Whitehead, of Hyndburn Borough Council, said: “What a fantastic event for the town centre, it has been amazing to see so many people shopping local and enjoying the festivities before Christmas. I hope everyone had a great time!”

Ahead of the Christmas Light Switch On event, there was also a special Blessing of the Crib featuring Accrington St Mary Magdalen's Church of England Primary School at 2pm.

The event was sponsored by Hyndburn Borough Council, brsk, Cardboard Box Company and Financial Affairs, while the main act Martin Kemp was sponsored by iMEP International Music Event Production.

For more coverage from the #AmazingAccrington Christmas Light Switch On, visit: www.amazingaccrington.co.uk