CHART-TOPPER Peter Andre is topping the bill to kick off Blackburn's festive celebrations tonight.

The Aussie hunk, star of reality TV hit I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, is taking to the stage at 5.30pm to switch on the town's Christmas lights.

With fireworks and the Rock FM roadshow, organisers are promising something for all the family as the town stages its first late night shopping event of the festive season.

The evening, which starts at 4pm, will be hosted by Blackburn with Darwen Council in partnership with Blackburn Shopping Centre and entertainment will include a mix of contemporary and traditional music and carols by a range of local talent.

Coun Andy Kay, the council's executive member for regeneration, said: "This year's Christmas lights switch on promises to be one of the best night's of this festive season.

"In Blackburn, with the help of our partners, shopping centre owners, the Mall, we have the opportunity to provide a special night that signifies the start of the Christmas period for the town."

Local boy band D-Rail, who are bidding for chart success this Christmas, will also entertain the crowds with their single How do I say Goodbye? in aid of Cancer Research.

Fire artists will keep the cold away and entertain crowds alongside the characters from this year's King George's Hall panto - Sleeping Beauty.