RYLAN Clark will be switching on the Christmas lights at Lakeside this year.

The presenter and X-Factor finalist will be visiting the intu shopping centre alongside a local hero who will be chosen by the public on Friday for the switch-on at 7pm.

Throughout the day there will also be a Santa Parade, where Father Christmas will parade with his elves before taking up residence at the Christmas Grotto.

Other entertainment on the day includes stilt walkers and roller skating reindeers, as well as free hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts for all visitors.

Marketing manager Donna Callander said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming Rylan to intu Lakeside to push the all important button this weekend.

“As November has arrived, we’re already feeling festive and our beautiful Christmas lights are just the thing to get our shoppers in the spirit.”

The Christmas light switch on will take place in car park three by House of Fraser.

Santa’s Parade will begin at 2.30pm in-centre, with Santa’s Grotto then open until Christmas Eve, located on level one by Debenhams.

Lakeside is also offering a free Shop and Drop service from November 28 to December 24, where shoppers can drop their shopping bags at the Shop and Drop desk by Next on level one later collect them later by car from the outside collection point.

Late night shopping also kicks off on December 1, with extended weekday opening hours from 9am to 11pm.

For more information on the Christmas light switch on, or to book a visit to see Father Christmas, visit www.intu.co.uk/Lakeside