East Anglian Boy to sing at city lights switch-on

Leon Mallet will entertain the crowds at the Norwich Christmas light switch-on

Christmas light celebrations will include a performance from the YouTube sensation East Anglian Boy, Leon Mallet, organisers have said.

The Norwich switch-on will take place in front of City Hall, in St Peter's Street, on Thursday evening.

Alongside Mr Mallet's festive performance, comedian Owen Evans, from comedy double act, The Nimmo Twins, will turn on the lights.

Mr Mallett is a professional singer and reached the live finals of The X Factor in 2017.

The official Norwich Christmas lights switch-on will feature a song from East Anglian Boy, Leon Mallett

Claire Kidman said: “Our Festive lights switch-on, hosted by the council in front of City Hall, is a wonderful and enjoyable annual treat which for many of us marks the start of the countdown to the festive period."

She added: "We do hope everyone from all communities and all beliefs, and of all ages, will come along and enjoy this joyous gathering of festive goodwill and fun, and experience the community-spirit which makes Norwich so special.”

Following the switch-on, a brass band will play seasonal favourites, with many market stalls remaining open through to 20:00 GMT as well as a funfair offering thrills from 16:30 until late, the ccouncil said.

Other events include a Christmas disco from The Catton Grove Allstars, festive Framtastics Gymnastics and blessings for the festive season by the Revd Canon Edward Carter from St Peter Mancroft Church.

The lights will be turned on at 19:00.

Thousands of people usually attend the Christmas switch-on in Norwich each year