Olympic heros start Christmas celebrations

Ed Clancy, Lizzie Armistead and Luke Campbell launch the Winter Wonderland at McArthurGlen designer outlet York

Christmas shoppers joined Olympic medallists Lizzie Armistead, Ed Clancy and Luke Campbell - who collectively won Gold, Silver and Bronze medals at London 2012 - as they launched Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland.

The trio all pushed the plunger switching on over 10,000 twinkling Christmas lights at
 McArthurGlen's designer outlet in York heralding the start of the festive shopping season.

Over 15,000 shoppers joined the Olympians to celebrate the Christmas season and official opening of Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland - which brings a host of festive delights to shoppers including traditional fair rides and 10 beautifully styled traditional log cabin stalls; offering everything from handmade gifts to delicious food, as well as a magnificent Santa’s Grotto, all surrounding The Ice Factor ice rink.

“We were thrilled to welcome the best of Yorkshire’s homegrown sporting talent to help us kick off the Christmas shopping period at McArthurGlen’s York Designer Outlet. The launch of Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland is always a highlight in the festive calendar and the Christmas season always drives many shoppers to the centre, looking for gifts and party wear at our 120 fashion and designer brands."

– Mike Thomas, Centre Manager at McArthurGlen

“Switching on the Christmas lights display at McArthurGlen’s York Designer Outlet was fantastic. I was surprised at how many people turned out to join in the beginning of the festive fun. It is great to participate once more in something so rewarding on home soil.”

– Lizzie Armistead

"An enjoyable evening through-and-through. Being surrounded by all the great stores has got me inspired for Christmas shopping – I’ve already seen some purchases I can tick off the list for friends and family!”

– Luke Campbell

SOURCE: itv.com