THOUSANDS of people turned out to see community-funded Christmas lights unveiled in a York street.

Bishopthorpe Road was packed on Thursday evening, to see the event and take part in a street party which ran into the evening.

Johnny Hayes, chair of the Bishopthorpe Road Trading Association, said the event was just the latest in a series of successes this year, including a visit from the Tour de France and being named one of Britain's best high streets.

He said: "It was a phenomenal atmosphere, with an amazing attendance. It's always difficult to estimate numbers, but I would say there were probably 2,500 to 3,000 people who came out which is unbelievable.

"The whole street was packed and the switching on was lovely, by two local children who had won a Christmas card competition. They were over the moon, they looked incredibly happy and typified the event - it's a local community event but everyone seems to turn out for it."

The lights were funded by the local community, with 225 people raising £4,500, and sponsorship from local businesses, to help keep the community atmosphere alive.

Mr Hayes said: "We have had a good year, and obviously people want to come out and celebrate.

"It's been unbelievable. On the night M&K butchers won best family business in York at the business awards to that's yet another plus for the street which is much deserved. I think we have got a really good team of people to me this is all about shops and community pulling together to provide fantastic benefits."

Mr Hayes said plans were already underway for events in 2015, which may include the Tour of Yorkshire, and put the area's success down to a simple formula.

He said: "It's a unique street and I would say this has happened as a result of some good business and good people working together."