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Tens of thousands at Millennium Point

Heavy rain began to fall shortly before the official switching on at 7.30pm. A fireworks display over Millennium Point followed, as Birmingham's brand new eco-friendly Christmas lights lit up the city centre.

The lighting designs, incorporating angels, stars and aspects of the Nativity, can be seen in Colmore Row and around St. Philip's Cathedral, as well as extending to the Bus Mall and retail area.

In total, the lights cost Birmingham City Council Β£590,000 (including infrastructure and installation costs) and use up to 75% less energy per feature than the old lights, thus helping the city reduce its carbon footprint.

Enjoying the entertainment

Millennium Point

The entertainment began 3pm at Millennium Point with a fairground and hot food and drink stalls, as well as a free concert on the main stage.

Heavy rain began to fall just before the official switching on at 7.30pm but even that couldn't damper Birmingham's Christmas spirit.

Aside from Lemar, the gig featured John Barrowman, star of the Doctor Who spin-off series Torchwood, who treated fans to live songs from his new album, as well as the 2007 Strictly Come Dancing winner Alesha Dixon.

The fairground

In addition, Scouting For Girls returned to Birmingham at the concert, and X-Factor winner Leon Jackson, girl band The Saturdays, R'n'B star Taio Cruz and Danish group Alphabeat all performed live on stage.

Click the link below to see photos from the event, including some snaps of Birmingham's brand new Christmas lights.