FIVE million television viewers saw the Christmas lights turned on in one Poole cul-de-sac.

The inflatable Santas and snowmen in Runton Road were joined by three hundred residents who came out in the cold to be part of the BBC programme The One Show as it broadcast live on air last evening.

Presenters Iwan Thomas and Lucy Siegle spoke to neighbours before having a countdown and watching the lights go on as the cheers rang out.

Former Olympian Iwan Thomas told the Daily Echo the road had got him in the mood for Christmas.

“It's brilliant and they are all really lovely, great people here,” he said.

“They go to such a great effort and make lots of money for charity so it's done for a great reason.

“I wasn't really in the Christmas spirit this year but from meeting everyone here it's got me in the mood.

“They had a coach of disabled children here to enjoy it and it's just so nice.”

The cast and crew started preparing for the live broadcast at 3pm and resident Mick Philips said it had been a busy afternoon.

Mick, 58, who sets up his display with his wife Nancy, said: “It's been absolutely crazy, but well worth it.

“This is the first year that something like this has happened with The One Show being here.”

On television Mick's front garden, complete with a snow machine, was played off against Chris Smith's display across the road.

Chris started the displays with his other neighbour Bob Cowe more than 20 years ago.

Chris, 61, said: “It's been a bit manic and I don't know where all these people have arrived from.”

The street raised £1,600 for charity from donations last Christmas Eve and Bob said it was a joy seeing the faces of children who visit.

“It's just magic,” added Bob, 71.

Festive news, events, recipes, pictures and our Cracking Christmas competition at bournemouthecho.co.uk/christmas