Fans hurt in Christmas ritual

LONDON (AP) — Four people have been hospitalized and dozens have received medical treatment after a crowd surge during a ceremony to switch on Christmas lights in the English city of Birmingham.

Officials say 20,000 people — more than anticipated — attended Saturday's event, which was scheduled to include fireworks and performances by boy band JLS and girl group Sugababes.

West Midlands Ambulance Service says 60 people were injured when a metal barrier collapsed. Four had serious injuries and broken bones that required hospital treatment, while the rest were lightly hurt.

Birmingham City Council says the event was canceled because of safety concerns after the incident.

- AP