SHOPPERS at Gateshead's MetroCentre welcomed world-famous triple jumper, Jonathan Edwards to launch Christmas at the Centre.
Jonathan leapt into action to transform MetroCentre's three and a half miles of malls into a dazzling display, with lots of vivid colours and contemporary styles _ and over half a million twinkling lights.
Olympic triple jump champion and world record holder Jonathan was joined in the launch by some children, the MetroGnomes and Santa Claus.
Shoppers then gathered to collect a prized autograph from Jonathan as he met those who had queued to be nearest the front, and he showed off his Olympic medal too.
Jonathan said: "I am honoured to have been asked to launch Christmas at MetroCentre this year by switching on the most spectacular lights in the region.
"It will also encourage me to start my Christmas shopping as I have been getting some wonderful ideas."
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