As the count reached zero, celebrities led by the city's very own X Factor star Nicole Lawrence and Harry Potter actor Warwick Davis flicked the switch to transform the buzzing city centre into a twinkling winter wonderland.

And footballers from the Peterborough United squad were left feeling right at home as an avenue of blue and white lights were revealed.

Due to the works in Cathedral Square, this year's festivities were centred on Bridge Street and Long Causeway and the street was packed as people jostled to get a view of the stage.

Posh fans queued up to bag the signatures of stars Joe Lewis, Aaron Maclean and George Boyd and throughout the afternoon there was live music from local talent The Brays, Craig Saggers and Susan Saunders as well as Mikey Matteo before Nicole took to the stage.

And the Peterborough-based singing sensation, wowed the crowds with her X Factor songs before leading revellers in a few Christmas favourites.

She said: "I have actually performed at the light switch-on before when I worked for Hereward FM, but this time I am headlining which is incredible really.

"It's always special being back in Peterborough but now everyone comes up and says hello in the street which is nice."

And when asked which of the remaining contestants she was backing she joked "John and Edward" before admitting she wanted Olly Murs to win.

Taking a break from filming the final Harry Potter film, Warwick Davis said it was a "huge honour" to be asked to take part.

He added: "Chris Moyles and the team had to guess who was switching on the Peterborough lights on his show on Radio 1 this morning and they finally guessed it was me after a few clues. I just hope I can reach the switch."

Megan Wallington-Beddoe (14) and Awais Ali (15) were the ET competition winners sharing the spotlight and both admitted to a few nerves before joining Mayor of Peterborough, councillor Irene Walsh, Deputy Mayor councillor Pamela Winslade and Santa on stage.