Local talent wows the crowds at Princesshay

The day's delay in the Christmas lights switch on just seemed to add to the air of anticipation this evening, when the people of Exeter came out in force to kickstart Christmas and watch the evening's performers.

And they were not to be disappointed. The evening started with a swing with music from the Exeter University Jazz Orchestra, closely followed by an impressive performance from Exeter-born singer-songwriter Chris Ostler.

Along with appearances from big names such as The Voice star Adam Isaac - sporting an Exeter City FC shirt - the Lympstone Military Wives Choir, Exeter's very own celebrity chef Michael Caines and Heart radio presenter Toby Anstis to the stars of tomorrow in the form of St Michael’s Church of England Primary School and dancers from St Luke’s Science & Sports College. There were also entertaining performances by the casts of Sleeping Beauty (21st Dec 2012 to 5th Jan 2013) and Dick Whittington (Wednesday 12th December 2012), which are due to bring fun and laughter to the Barnfield Theatre.

The Exeter Daily gazebo provided shelter and a last-minute rehearsal space for the performers. We spoke to St Luke's College dancers just before they went on stage, who confessed to feeling as much nervous as they were excited to be performing this evening.