Countdown to Christmas lights switch-on

Preparations are underway for this weekend’s Christmas lights switch-on with work starting  on Wednesday, 14 November on the new centrepiece illuminated tree in the city centre.

Carlisle is set to welcome the new addition to its Christmas festivities this year. A sparkling new ten metre tall tree will be the city's centrepiece 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.

The tree will also be the focus for this year’s Light Up A Life carol service on Sunday, 18 November at 4pm. Each light on the tree will be dedicated to a loved one and will help raise money for the Eden Valley Hospice.

The tree will take several days to erect and will be in place in time for this weekend’s festive lights switch on. International popstar Chico will be guest of honour this Sunday (18 November).

Chico, an ITV X Factor finalist and firm family favourite, will join the Mayor of Carlisle, Cllr Mrs 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 4.45pm. The switch-on crowd will then determine the eventual overall winner by taking part in a live phone poll.

As part of the festivities, ‘Re-Take That’ will also be entertaining the crowds.

The final preparations for Carlisle’s flagship Christmas are well underway. Carlisle City Council has attracted sponsorship and support from Story Homes, Carlisle Renaissance, Cumbria County Council and The Lanes Shopping Centre to provide an impressive programme.

Organised by Carlisle City Council, the city's decorations will also include the illumination of key city landmarks - including the Citadel and Castle. These contemporary illuminations have been funded by Carlisle City Council, Cumbria County Council and English Heritage. A traditional Nativity scene will also be placed in the city centre outside the Old Town Hall.

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."