Norwich City goalkeeper John Ruddy pushed the plunger to bathe Castle Mall in a festive glow.

Eastern Daily Press: Christmas fun at Castle Mall, Norwich for the switching on of the lights by NCFC's John Ruddy and competition winners Leo Williams and Lillie Edenborough.PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAYChristmas fun at Castle Mall, Norwich for the switching on of the lights by NCFC's John Ruddy and competition winners Leo Williams and Lillie Edenborough.PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAY (Image: ARCHANT NORFOLK)

Hundreds of people gathered at the shopping centre's White Lion Square, near to Boots, for the Christmas lights switch-on event today.

A pair of elves entertained the crowds before a countdown from 10, and there was a full afternoon of fun.

Amanda Phillips, centre manager of Castle Mall, said: 'We were really excited to have a Norwich City player visit to kick off Christmas at Castle Mall.

'It was a fun afternoon with lots of great entertainment for shoppers.'

Eastern Daily Press: Christmas fun at Castle Mall, Norwich for the switching on of the lights by NCFC's John Ruddy and competition winners Leo Williams and Lillie Edenborough.PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAYChristmas fun at Castle Mall, Norwich for the switching on of the lights by NCFC's John Ruddy and competition winners Leo Williams and Lillie Edenborough.PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAY (Image: ARCHANT NORFOLK)

Leading up to the big switch-on, shoppers were joined by an unusual collection of characters.

These included fairies on stilts with light-up wands, Buzz Lightyear, Spiderman and the Incredible Hulk.

Prize giveaways on stage included one to a child who could make the loudest noise, and another to the parent in the crowd who had the most children.

The winner, who had six children, was awarded a free makeover.

The elves, who were the comperes, asked John Ruddy about his Christmas Day routine.

He said he would be preparing for the Boxing Day match against Tottenham.

As the lights were switched on there was a flutter of white confetti.

The store's Christmas tree is by the spiral steps near to Boots.