LAST-minute hitches couldn’t take the shine off Littleborough’s joint Christmas lights switch on and Lancashire day celebrations.

Transport delays meant the Christmas tree didn’t arrive until the morning of the event, leaving a dash to ensure it was trimmed up ready for the night.

And the big switch-on was also delayed when a fuse blew just as Smithy Bridge schoolgirl Phoebe Wilkinson pushed the plunger.

Hundreds of people packed the square, which was closed to traffic for the occasion, and were treated to performances from Wardle Brass Band and Rochdale morris dance troupe.

There were also stalls, fairground rides and a reading of the Lancashire proclamation from town crier Barry McQueen.

Despite the problems, Steve Lister, of organisers Littleborough Events and Activities Forum, said the night was a great success.

He added: "This is what Littleborough is all about, people pulling together to put on events like this.  The atmosphere was terrific and it was lovely so see so many people of all ages relaxing and enjoying the evening. We were a bit panic-stricken when the tree had not appeared by Wednesday night but the technical team came up trumps and worked like steam to get the tree ready for the night. We owe them a big thank you."