Lights turn on has the X Factor

9:16am Wednesday 7th November 2007

Comments (5)   Have your say »

A SINGER from ITV's X Factor is to help with Blackburn's Christmas lights switch-on.

Rowetta Satchell, who came fourth in the contest in 2004, has been booked to sing at the festive curtain-raiser on Thursday, November 15.

The lights switch-on is in King William Street from 5.30pm.

Also entertaining the crowds will be the Salvation Army brass band, a children's choir, the Wig Wam Glam Band and an interview with Blackburn Rovers players.

Council chiefs are also promising a "mystery celebrity guest". A stage will be set up, and Christmas goody bags will be handed out.

Traders are hoping to cash in on the festivities, with shops open until 8pm, and there will be free parking from 4pm.

The event will end about 7.15pm with a fireworks display and imitation snow.

Coun Alan Cottam, executive member for regeneration, said: "It should be a great night, and we hope as many people will come along and show their support for the town centre."