Blackburn’s Christmas lights switch-on takes place this week and its set to be bigger and brighter than ever.
This year, popstar and Britain’s Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon will be in town to turn on the lights on Thursday, 19th November for the party of the year hosted by the Bee Radio and BBC Lancashire’s Ted Robbins.
Also appearing will be the children’s television show characters, Small & Tiny from the Clangers, World Superbike Champion Carl Fogarty and former X Factor contestant Jake Quickenden.
There will also be guest appearances from Britain’s Got Talents stars Henry Gallagher and Ella Shaw, soap stars Peter Gunn and Alex Bain who is well known for his portrayal of Simon Barlow on Coronation Street.
The event is free to attend and will start at 4.30pm and end at 7pm on King William Street.
Shops in the Mall Blackburn will stay open until 8pm for the switch-on to mark the beginning of late night shopping every Thursday in the lead up to Christmas.
A selected number of food stalls based in Blackburn Market will also be open on the night until 6.30pm.
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council are working in partnership with the Blackburn Business Improvement District (BID) to organise this year’s lights switch-on.
Manager of the Blackburn BID, Harriet Roberts, said: “This year’s Christmas lights switch-on promises to be a cracker, with a fantastic line-up of music acts and lots of fun to be had for all the family to enjoy. We hope that with all festivities planned for the Christmas season visitors will see Blackburn in a whole new light!”
Councillor Phil Riley, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, said: “We have some really big names and this is sure to be a fantastic event. We have something for everyone, and there are great guests and activities for families. It will be a great start to the festive season for residents, visitors and traders.”
