A Stormy Night Turns Sparkling

Not even the fierce winds and lashing rain of Storm Claudia could dampen the spirit of Coronation Street’s most beloved stars, who brought glamour and festive joy to Manchester’s Gay Village for the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On. Fans gathered outside New York New York Bar, determined to celebrate despite the wild November weather.

This yearly tradition has become one of the most heart-warming community events in the city. The atmosphere was loud, proud, and beautifully festive as cast members arrived in their most cheerful seasonal outfits.

Corrie Royalty Leads a Night of Music and Laughter

Among the famous faces were Cath Tyldesley, Jodie Prenger, Cait Fitton, Aaron McCusker, and Tony Maudsley. A last-minute canopy protected the performers as they led the crowd in singalongs. But the biggest moment came when Jane Hazlegrove, Peter Gunn, and Vicky Myers performed the official lights switch-on, receiving cheers that echoed through the Village.

The event, held every year to support charity, raised money for Prevent Breast Cancer, the UK’s only charity focused solely on predicting and preventing the disease. The purpose was clear: to celebrate the season while helping save lives.

ABBA, Wham! and a Night of Pure Festive Camp

Music quickly became the highlight of the evening. Jodie, Rob, Cath, and Aaron stunned the crowd with a medley of ABBA classics, transforming into Weatherfield’s very own version of the Swedish supergroup. Their matching sweatshirts read “Snowing Me, Snowing You”, complete with ABBA’s iconic faces printed boldly across the front.

The singalongs continued with Wham!’s “Last Christmas” and a rousing performance of Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York”, fitting for a bar that shares the same name. Soaked coats and windswept umbrellas did not stop anyone from belting out the lyrics.

A Celebration of Community and Giving

Attendees snapped photos with cast members, shared laughs, and watched the sky burst into colour as the Village lit up for the holiday season. New York New York Bar’s owner, Tracey Walsh, praised the actors and the fans who braved the storm:

“Despite the rain, the atmosphere was incredible. We’re grateful to the Coronation Street stars and everyone who came out to support such an important cause.”

The night ended with a clear message: weather may test the celebration, but community always wins.