THE countdown is on for Leigh town centre's weekend Christmas launch on November 25 and 26.

An action-packed schedule starts on Saturday at 10am when walkabout characters give away chocolates and balloons.

At 11am street entertainers join in with yet more goodies, and free face-painting is available in the Spinning Gate Shopping Centre and market.

At 3pm the fun starts in the town hall square, with a bevy of special guests and demonstrations.

At 5.15 a parade sets off from Bradshawgate, then at 6pm Ken Dodd (pictured) switches on Leigh's best lights yet.

On Sunday the fun continues with all-day shopping, Santa at Spinning Gate, competitions and prizes, a Christmas roadshow and more.