AROUND 15,000 people packed into Dundee city centre yesterday to watch Santa and Duncan the Dragon join Lord Provost John Letford to launch the countdown to Christmas.

The entertainment extravaganza culminated with the switching on of the Christmas lights.

“The main arena was at its capacity of 11,500, plus there was crowds gathering half way up Reform Street and round the Overgate,” said a spokesperson for organisers the City of Discovery Campaign.

“It is estimated that 15,000 people in total were in the city centre.

“Everyone is extremely happy with the turn-out. There was a lot of effort put into the show and everything went off as planned and on time.”

The day of entertainment kicked off with the continental market on High Street, with a variety of stalls selling food stuffs and arts and crafts products, opening up for their fourth day of trading.

The focus then shifted up to the Wellgate Centre, where Santa Claus started on a horse drawn sleigh ride through the city centre, accompanied by young Caleb Gardiner.

As they set off they were followed by 20 dancing and singing elves from Dorwin Stage School, complete in resplendent red and green outfits.

Santa then spent an hour-and-a-half in City Square, greeting children and handing out goody bags donated by D.C Thomson & Co. Ltd.

There was carol singing from university and church choirs. Downfield Musical Society and Junior Showtime also participated in the festivities.

Face painters, balloon modellers, a stilt walker, magician, clowns and jugglers entertained the crowds around the city centre.

A 200-strong lantern parade entered City Square to signal the start of the switch-on ceremony.

Lord Provost John Letford commented on the massive crowd that had gathered during his Christmas message before turning on the lights.

“This is the best Christmas crowd at the lights that I have ever seen,” said Mr Letford.

“I would like to take the opportunity to wish each and everyone of you a very happy Christmas.

“Thank you very much for your generosity in 2005 when disasters happened all over the world.

“I would ask you that while looking after your children this Christmas you have a thought for those children who will not have a happy Christmas.”

The crowds were then dazzled as the city’s Christmas illuminations were switched on and a laser light show, sponsored by Scottish Power, filled the evening sky.

The Caird Hall was also lit up in a sea of stunning rainbow colour lasers.

Dundee City Council economic development convener, Councillor Joe Morrow, said, “The Christmas lights switch-on is part of a packed programme that is designed to add to the already wide range of attractions in Dundee city centre.

“Dundee prides itself on being a family friendly city centre and the switch-on ceremony was a spectacular site for all ages.”

Organisers reported that there were no casualties and only seven children had become lost but were quickly reunited with their families.