Blackburn is gearing up for a Christmas pop extravaganza!

This year’s Christmas Lights Switch On in Blackburn takes place this Thursday, November 19 and a line-up of stars will be there to tempt all the family to the town centre for the party of the year.

Pop star and talent show judge, Alesha Dixon will headline a two hour show presented by The Bee radio and compered by Ted Robbins (Phoenix Nights, The Slammer and Coronation Street).

Alesha Dixon is well known as a competitor and judge on peak time Saturday night shows Strictly Come Dancing and Britain’s Got Talent. Also performing will be X Factor’s Jake Quickenden, Britain’s Got Talent’s Henry Gallagher, and Ella Shaw from Langho with girl band, Tiger Heart.

Special guests will include super bike champion and King of the Jungle, Carl Fogarty, soap star Peter Gunn and Alex Bain who is well known for his portrayal of Simon Barlow on Coronation Street.

Also appearing will be the children’s television show characters, Small and Tiny from the Clangers, who will be meeting and greeting families before the show in The Mall at 2pm and in Blackburn Market  Mall at 4pm. They’ll be at the light switch on too!

The event is organised by the Blackburn BID (Business Improvement District) and Blackburn with Darwen Council.

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.”