TOWNS across Hyndburn will soon be sparkling under the glow of thousands of Christmas lights.

The festive season is set to get under way with several activities being held to entertain shoppers and families across the borough.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Britain’s Got Talent winner Jai McDowall will perform in Accrington before flicking the switch on Thursday.

With the build-up outside the Market Hall from 6pm, there will also be a firework extravaganza and many shops are expected to stay open so families can enjoy a spot of late-night shopping.

Hyndburn town centres boss, Cllr Clare Cleary said: “Bring the family into Accrington for the big switch-on. It’s set to be a fabulous event with a great programme of entertainment and a spectacular firework display.

“It will herald the start of lots of festive events during November and December.”

Switch-on events are also set to take place in Clayton-le-Moors on Tuesday, Oswaldtwistle on Wednesday, Huncoat on Monday, December 1, Church on Tuesday, December 2, Milnshaw on Thursday, December 4, Baxenden, Rishton and Great Harwood on Friday, December 5, and Altham on Monday, December 15.

And from Saturday, December 6, Santa’s Grotto will be open in Accrington’s Market Hall.

Council leader Miles Parkinson said: “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas with all the switch-ons around the borough, including the Accrington spectacular.

“Please bring the family into Accrington for the big switch-on on November 27 and also come along and support your local community switch-on event.

“Many thanks also to all the councillors and members of each community, who have worked hard to organise these local township events.”

The Chamber of Trade has organised activities in Accrington town centre for Saturday, December 13 and Saturday, December 20.

Shoppers in the town centre will be treated to free food and drink, choral performances, fairground rides and live entertainment.

On December 13, shoppers will be given free mulled wine or hot drink, free mince pies, roast chestnuts, and potatoes.

St Christopher’s choir and jazz band will play, while Captain Custard and his face-painters will also be visiting.

And on December 20, Accrington Pipe Band will perform, while ‘Uncle Brian’ will provide live entertainment.

A Chamber of Trade spokesman said: “Throughout the Christmas period there will be additional activities taking place in the Arndale Centre, and also in the Market Hall where Father Christmas will be in his grotto.”