Thousands turnout as Stirling lights up for Christmas in spectacular style

Thousands of people packed into Stirling city centre on Sunday for this year's spectacular Christmas Lights switch on event, signalling the official start of the festive season.

The fun-filled family day, offering a wide programme of entertainment, attracted huge crowds and showcased Stirling as the perfect place to visit over the winter period.

Boasting a superb variety of shops, restaurants and bars, along with a bumper programme of events and entertainment, there will be something for everyone to enjoy in the city during this special time of year.

Councillor Chris Kane, Convener of the Planning and Regeneration Committee, said: “Once again, the Christmas Lights switch on event proved a massive success, with people turning out in tremendous numbers for a festive feast of music and entertainment, and to see our beautiful city light up for Christmas.

“I'm sure visitors to the city enjoyed their experience and hopefully they will return to Stirling over the festive period for our jam-packed winter programme of events, to carry out their Christmas shopping or to check out our world-class attractions.

“With our central location in Scotland and excellent transport links, enhanced by the recent re-opening of the Kerse Road Bridge ahead of schedule, Stirling is ready to welcome residents and visitors for the exciting Christmas rush."

Brave local boy Alfie Bell had the honour of switching on the lights in the early evening darkness as huge crowds watched on at the foot of King Street.

The five-year-old from Fallin is the youngest person in the UK to be diagnosed with Crohn's disease and is profoundly deaf.

And he was chosen to turn on the lights across the city, alongside Provost Christine Simpson, in a competition ran by Thistles Shopping Centre.

Earlier on, Alfie sat alongside Santa in his sleigh as the traditional reindeer procession kicked off a fantastic day of festive fun.

Throngs of people lined the street as the colourful parade, headed by the Stirling land train and including a host of Christmas characters, made its way from the Albert Halls around the city centre.

After that, the party continued as residents and visitors enjoyed a jam-packed programme of entertainment, including an array of live performances.

On the main stage, up and coming musician Tommy McGuire and Ariana Grande tribute act, Simply Ariana, fronted by Gemma Lamont, contrasted in style but proved an equal hit to those in attendance.

In between acts, Capital Scotland kept everyone in the festive spirit, playing Christmas classics and holding competitions and giveaways.

Made in Stirling’s new creative hub at the corner of King Street hosted the talented young people from the Big Noise Orchestra, while upcoming local bands and musicians performed at a second stage on Friar Street.

And after Alfie switched on the lights to great acclaim, Britain's Got Talent Winner Jai McDowall crowned off a memorable day with a stunning vocal display, sending everyone home full of festive cheer.

Cllr Kane said: “It was fitting that a brave boy like Alfie took centre stage on this special day, while all the musical acts put on a superb show.

“I would like to thank all our staff whose hard work made this such a magical and memorable event, along with all the other agencies, including the police.”