CHELMSFORD is set to be illuminated by thousands of sparkling lights as the grand switch-on ceremony signals the beginning of the city’s festivities.

A special event for the official switch-on of Chelmsford’s Christmas lights will run from 1pm tomorrow, Sunday November 22, until the grand fireworks finale at 4.45pm.

The annual event is a firm favourite in the city’s calendar as shops, performers and local organisations unite to keep everyone entertained and get into the festive spirit.

A stage set up outside the Shire Hall in the city’s High Street will create a focal point for the entertainment and activities, which will be going on throughout the day.

The event, which is being sponsored this year by the Weekly News, Quest Motor Group, Citroen and Heart Radio, will be hosted by radio presenters Martin Day and Su Harrison, of Heart Radio.

They will lead a succession of local and professional talent on stage to show off their musical skills between 1pm and 3pm.

At 4.45pm the mayor of Chelmsford, Paul Hutchinson, will get up on the big stage with Martin and Su for the much-anticipated Chelmsford Lights switch-on.

They will be joined by cast members from Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre’s the Wizard of Oz on Ice and Chelmsford Civic Theatre’s Aladdin production, the YMCA’s Young Person of the Year, local singer Hollie Barrie, who recently starred on BBC’s the Voice, and Weekly News editor Gary Pearson.

The switch-on will be swiftly followed by a spectacular firework display, which will launch from near the Meadows Shopping Centre and the city sign.

When you aren’t watching the fun, this is the perfect opportunity for those who wish to do a bit of Christmas shopping.

Keep an eye out for any special offers and deals from the shops!

Christmas can be an expensive time, so to help you get the best deals this year, a “Little Book of Christmas Offers” booklet will be available once more at the lights switch-on, giving you discounts for the rest of the holiday season.

Next week, Late Night Shopping begins in Chelmsford city centre on Thursday nights.

Please check details of individual store opening times for more information.

For more about Sunday’s event and other seasonal activities please go and visit chelmsford.gov.uk/christmas