EastEnders star Jake Wood is to switch on St Albans’ spectacular Christmas lights during an action-packed afternoon of festive fun.
Jake - who plays Max Branning in the hit BBC drama - will be joined on stage by the other performers from this year’s Alban Arena pantomime, Peter Pan.
The City Centre will be transformed into a winter wonderland of entertainment for all the family on Sunday 15 November.
Among the attractions are live music, gift stalls, free activities for children, food and drink stands and a funfair.
The event starts at noon and carries on throughout the afternoon with Jake switching on the lights at 5.30pm as darkness falls.
A programme of live entertainment will run from 12 noon to 6pm on two stages, at the taxi rank, near the Beech House, and a bandstand outside of Clinton Cards.
There will be performances by:
• Special Kinda Madness, a tribute band who play the hits of both Madness and the Specials;
• Swing trio The Polka Dots;
• Ukulele group, Katie’s Jumping Fleas; and
• A special Ice Queen will be making a guest appearance.
St Alban's Mayor, Cllr Gaygusuz, said: "This is going to be an amazing event to get Christmas off to a magical start in St Albans and the District.
"Everyone is welcome to come along to sample what will be a cracking atmosphere. There’s a fantastic range of entertainment – something for all the family.
"I will be helping Jake, Bob and the other stars from this year’s Alban Arena panto switch on the lights. It will be one of the highlights of my year."
Written by Isaac Ouro