ALMOST 14,000 revellers braved the rain to descend on The Rock to enjoy the spectacular switch-on of its Christmas lights.

And the X-Factor played a big part in the X-mas celebrations with former contestant Jake Quickenden headlining the event, supported by Kiera Weathers, who had just been voted out of this year's ITV contest.

Despite the wet weather, visitors thronged the retail and leisure complex to watch the festive show which took place on a stage in St John's Square

Tower FM's breakfast presenter Glen Hunt was the event's host throughout last Thursday evening: Bury-based Active Dance put on a number of medleys; girl band Tiger Heart performed; and the Carol Godby Theatre School showcased the talents of their singing, dancing and cheerleading students.

Jake Quickenden, also well known for his appearance on last year's "I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here" show performed a number of original and well known songs. He also took time to interact with the crowd, shaking hands with fans who had been waiting in the rain all afternoon and posing for photos.

The lights were switched on by Jake Quickenden, Kiera Weathers, Glen Hunt, Father Christmas and Arnold Wilcox-Wood, centre director of The Rock, while a snow machine created a festive finale.

A number of competition winners who had registered online to win a VIP Narnia experience were given front row seats to the show and met with Jake and Kiera afterwards for photographs. They were also treated to family meal thanks to AMF Bowling, The Chinese Buffet and Frankie & Benny’s.

A variety of props and characters brought the Narnia theme to life, including a stilt walking Mr Tumnus and a White Witch character who interacted with shoppers.

Bury FC players including Ryan Lowe, Kelvin Etuhu, Rob Lainton, Craig Jones and Andrew Tutte, accompanied by Chris Brass, head of football, also made an appearance and gave away the prize of a signed shirt.

Mr Wilcox-Wood said: “The awful weather could not stop The Rock customers from passing through the wardrobe into Narnia. Jake Quickenden proved to be a big hit and was well supported by a star studded cast.

"The event was a huge success and saw almost 14,000 visitors come to The Rock during the event. The show has started The Rock’s move into its Christmas promotions so people should look out for our land train, Santa’s grotto and entertainment."

* On the night, a trip to Lapland was won by 21 year-old Amy Neary from Langley, Middleton, who will be taking her mum and her cousin.