Carlisle The Christmas City
'Chico time' at festive lights switch on
International popstar Chico will be guest of honour at this
year's (Sunday, 18 November) Carlisle Christmas lights
switch-on.
Chico, an ITV X Factor finalist and firm family favourite will
join the Mayor of Carlisle, Cllr Elizabeth Mallinson to trigger a
galaxy of Christmas lights in the city centre at 5.30pm.
The popstar's appearance coincides with the release of his
latest single "Curvy Cola Bottle Body". Legendary haulage company
Eddie Stobart and the X Factor's favourite entertainer have teamed
up to fight against the size zero phenomenon and backlash. They are
working with the UK's leading eating disorder charity
beat, to raise funds for the charity.
The lights switch-on, arranged by Carlisle City Council, the
News & Star and CFM Radio will begin Carlisle's countdown to
Christmas and will be compered by the News & Star's David
McNeill and CFM's Robbie Dee.
As part of the build-up to the event, a 'Reach for the Stars'
local talent competition will be held on Sunday, 18 November
between 11am and 2pm. Three finalists will be chosen from three
different age categories and will take part in a Reach for the
Stars Grand Finale, starting at 4.30pm. The switch-on crowd will
then determine the eventual overall winner by taking part in a live
phone poll.
The final preparations for Carlisle's flagship Christmas are
well underway. Carlisle City Council has attracted sponsorship and
support from Story Homes, Cumbria County Council and The Lanes
Shopping Centre to provide an impressive programme.
Carlisle is set to welcome a new addition to its Christmas
festivities this year. A sparkling new 10 metre tall tree will be
the city's centre piece and will include colourful decorations and
lights. The feature is set to dazzle and delight and is yet another
attraction to savour as part of Carlisle city centre's overall
illuminations and festive features.
Organised by Carlisle City Council, the city's decorations
will also include illuminations around key city landmarks -
including the Citadel and Castle and a traditional Nativity scene
in the city centre.
Following last year's success, a Christmas open-air market
will also return for an extended period. The city centre will host
around 80 stall between Saturday 1 December and Sunday 9 December.
A Carol Parade will also be held on Thursday 13 December.
Carlisle City Council Leader, Cllr Mike Mitchelson said:
Carlisle the Christmas City, has another
exciting programme of events and attractions to suit all the
family. A new tree will act as the centrepiece for the sparkling
illuminations and the Christmas market has been extended over a
longer period, following last year's success.
The lights switch-on will mark the start of the
festivities and we're thrilled that Chico can join us celebrate our
sparkling event.
