Hull’s Christmas lights have been switched on overnight, brightening up the city centre as national lockdown lifts.

In a change to the usual switch-on event, which attracts thousands each year, a drone has captured the moments the that all 45,600 lights have brightened up city centre streets for 2020.

As well as the 45ft Norway Spruce in Queen Victoria Square, a 15ft tree has this year been added to the already picturesque Museums Quarter, alongside a new lighting scheme.

KWL teams have taken around six weeks to install more than 228 separate columns, decorating Ferensway, Carr Lane, Jameson Street, King Edward St and Saville Street trees, as well as Lowgate, Alfred Gelder Street and Whitefriagate.

Every display is also complemented by the permanent building and landmark lighting, installed back in 2018.

Hull New Theatre Gardens, Queen Victoria Square and Hepworth Arcade also have their own displays and, for the first time, lampposts on the marina and in Trinity Square are decorated.

Councillor Dave Craker, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture said: “With the absence of a large event this year, we were really keen to ensure that as national lockdown is lifted and non-essential shops reopen, the city centre is looking it’s Christmas best. With the city currently in tier 3 of restrictions, the displays offer a wonderful, festive and most importantly safe outdoor space for our residents to enjoy.

“It is vital to remember that when you are out in the city centre, you continue to observe advice on staying a safe distance apart from those not in your household, wear masks anywhere it is required and observe the rule of six, which has been reintroduced in all areas as the national restriction ended and tiers returned.”

Details on the local restrictions in Hull can be found at www.hull.gov.uk.

The spectacular drone footage can be viewed here – (https://youtu.be/j1NptOsuYNo) and displays are now on every day until January.