The much anticipated Christmas lights switch-on will be taking place in Peterborough city centre this Friday, including the unveiling of a new light display in Cathedral Square and Bridge Street. PCRfm Breakfast Show presenter Kev Lawrence will be on stage at the fun-filled family occasion which runs from 5pm to 7pm.

The switch-on, hosted by PCRfm, will feature the stars from this year’s Christmas pantomimes at The Cresset, Key Theatre and New Theatre. There will also be performances from Courtney Pudney, Tommy Philpott, George Elliott and his band Upon This Rock, Cecil Farayi, plus Mayor of Peterborough Cllr Stephen Lane, the Peterborough Cathedral Choir and an appearance from Father Christmas himself.

However, the main attraction will be the city’s 40-foot Spruce Christmas tree which will be colourfully lit up as part of the switch-on. New light displays will also be shining brightly for everyone to see across the city, including on the Guild Hall, Town Hall and along the centre of Bridge Street. The lights have been funded by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority to help the city build back better following Covid-19. This year’s switch-on is being supported by City Fibre, Princebuild and Vodafone.

Cllr Steve Allen, cabinet member for culture at Peterborough City Council, said:

“Our Christmas tree has arrived and Santa’s little helpers are now getting it ready for the big switch on this Friday by removing low branches and dressing it with lights. We’re delighted to be once again holding a Christmas lights switch on for city residents following a one-year break due to Covid-19. This year we have some new Christmas lights for you all to enjoy, along with plenty of entertainment before the big switch-on.

We’d like to thank our sponsors and PCRfm for making the event possible and for adding plenty of festive sparkle. We hope you also find the time to do some Christmas shopping, visit our Christmas market and enjoy the many restaurants that Peterborough has to offer.”

As Peterborough is now an Enhanced Response Area for Covid-19, those attending are strongly encouraged are strongly encouraged to do the following to minimise the spread of Covid-19 in the city:

  • Wear a face covering in crowded spaces – even outdoors
  • Get all Covid-19 and flu vaccinations you are eligible for, as soon as possible, so that you can be protected when you attend
  • Social distance from others outside your household where possible.