The big switch on in the city centre has seen its fair share of drama over the years. These switch-on photos down the decades are sure to spark memories - good and bad. LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook

1. Leeds Lights
Leeds United manager Eddie Gray ready for the big lights switch on in December 1983 with the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Coun Martin Dodgson. | YPN Photo: YPN

2. Leeds Lights
1986 and Joe Sierra, a native American, was flown from America to turn on the lights partly thanks to a YEP spearheaded by YEP journalist and columnist John Thorpe. Quite why, no one is entirely sure. | YPN Photo: YPN

3. Leeds Lights
When Mickey Mouse pulled out in 1989 Danny La Rue stepped in and then pulled out when council leaders refused to let him drag himself up as Margaret Thatcher. Melanie Hill, aka Aveline in TV comedy Bread, filled the gap. | YPN Photo: YPN

4. Leeds Lights
Noel Edmonds arrived with Mr Blobby in 1993 and was counting down to turning the lights on when it came to the organisers attention that, by accident, the illuminations had already been accidentally lit. | Justin Lloyd Photo: Justin Lloyd

5. Leeds Lights
Magician Paul Daniels may have been the household name pressing the button in 1994 but it was boyband Bad Boys Inc who caused a stir when their appearance saw 10 girls in the audience instantly faint. | Mel Hulme Photo: Mel Hulme

6. Leeds Lights
Little and Large topped the bill in 1995 & also, taking third billing (behind Right said Fred), were a certain PJ & Duncan who later became the millionaire kings of Saturday night TV, Ant and Dec. | YPN Photo: YPN

