Emmerdale star delights fans at Hartlepool's Christmas lights switch on

Actor Adam, known to millions as Adam Barton in Emmerdale, delighted excited fans when he came to town last night.

Families braved the cold to get in the festive spirit early and enjoy a host of entertainment at the event at the National Museum of the Royal Navy.

Adam, who came third in last year’s I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, led a countdown before turning on the lights, illuminating decorations across the town centre.

He spoke to comperes Neil Green and Amy Oakden from BBC Tees about his time in the jungle and asked the crowd who they think will win this year.

Adam said: “It’s quite hard in there, there’s a lot of boredom but it was worth definitely worth it.”

He spent time meeting fans and happily posed for selfies while also watching the entertainment on stage.

Adam signed off by telling the crowd: “I love you.”

He was joined on stage by Hartlepool Mayor Councillor Paul Beck.

Councillor Beck said: “The lights switch-on is one of the best events that we have here in Hartlepool.”

A number of talented local performers entertained the crowds.

Festive music was provided courtesy of female Hartlepool choir Choral Interlude, singer Channy Thompson, the Hartlepool Special Needs Support Group, BTEC Performing Arts students from Hartlepool Sixth Form College, Miss Toni’s Academy, and girl group Sparkle.

Shanaya Atkinson-Jones, a contestant in this year’s X Factor, also took to the stage.

Celebrities to turn on the town’s Christmas lights in recent years have included Joey Essex and Coronation Street stars Jack P Shepherd and Samia Ghadie.