The Centre's switch-on event saw not only an increase in footfall – attracting more shoppers to Bury than in previous years – but also a buzz online with their social media activity spreading the word. 

The event, hosted by Key103, welcomed cast from the Met's Christmas Play 'Scrooge' who entertained the crowds in Mill Gate together with a performance by Bury FC’s cheerleaders. They were joined on stage by Cherelle Slater - Miss Bury 2011 - local boxing sensation, Scott Quigg, and Mill Gate's manager, Pete Barber who all judged the talent contest 'Mill Gate’s Christmas Stars'. 

Mark Beamer of Salford wowed the judges and shoppers with his very special rendition of Adele’s ‘Make you feel my love’ and walked away with a fabulous £500 Mill Gate Gift Card. Those at the Centre were also treated to an impromptu dance flash mob - arranged by Bury Castle Leisure Centre instructor, Julie Porter. Julie's Zumba Class sprang into life and encouraged over 150 shoppers to join in on the mall. 

Finally, shoppers were treated to music by local singer-songwriter, Kaitlyn Lewis, The Rock Choir and appearances by Bury FC favourites, Efe Sodje and Andy Bishop. The football stars gave shoppers signed footballs and family tickets to their match against Brentford next month. Many of Mill Gate’s retailers shared early Christmas gifts with their shoppers - Specsavers donating a pair of Timberland glasses, and Greggs handing out free mince pies throughout the day.

Centre Manager Pete Barber comments: “The buzz in the Centre has been fantastic all day and this is reflected in our fabulous footfall figures that showed we were 15.04% against the previous year– so a major thank you to everyone who was involved, but especially to our shoppers who made the event such a fun and entertaining start to our Christmas season." Pete continues: “We know times are hard for many, many people – so we wanted to really showcase the very best that Bury has to offer, great retailers and a fantastic environment – and we're delighted it was so well received. We’ve really got it covered this Christmas – and we look forward to welcoming shoppers from across our catchment in the countdown to this Christmas."