THOUSANDS turned out in freezing weather to enjoy Guiseley's Christmas lights switch on.

Organisers pulled out all the stops to help the town celebrate the festive season despite uncertainty over covid.

The turnout was estimated to be around 4,000 by Pudsey, Horsforth and Aireborough MP Stuart Andrew , who was behind the launch of the inaugural lights switch on and Christmas market five years ago.

Mr Andrew, who has continued to work to give Guiseley a good lights display, said: "Given the pandemic we were apprehensive about planning an event but as many of the restrictions had been lifted we decided it would be nice to have an event again. Whilst it left us with little time to organise, we are delighted we did it. The turnout was incredible and it was lovely to see so many people come along and browse the Christmas market and all it had to offer from crafts and gifts to supporting local charities and organisations.

"I am so grateful to all of the Guiseley Lights team who gave up hours and hours putting lights up and delivering a display the town can be proud of and for all the work done with fundraising. Without those funds and the sponsorship from Manning Stainton and the grants from the local Councillors we could never have delivered such an excellent event. The snow was literally the icing on the cake making it look spectacular as the lights were switched on and a huge fireworks display that lit up the sky. Also our thanks to all the entertainers who performed brilliantly on the stage.

"We are now planning our summer event which will be a street party to celebrate HM The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in June. Anyone wanting to get involved can email contact@guiseleylights.co.uk."

This year's event was captured by photographer Darren Sanderson.

Writing on the Guiseley Lights facebook page he said: "What a fantastic event this past Sunday at the Guiseley Christmas Lights switch on.

"With plenty of Snow and freezing temperatures, it really made the day feel like a winter wonderland and a perfect return to a Christmas event after 2 years.

"I just want to thank all the guys who work incredibly hard for months before the event. From the organising the stalls, to the cooking, to climbing to the top of the church to put up the star to putting up lights all around Guiseley. They were out in the horrendous weather on Saturday building the stalls and making sure the lights worked in the late/early hours.

"Really proud to know them all and without each and every one, this event would not run."

The lights were turned on by Elsie Turner, from the Royal British Legion.