X Factor favourites to star at Rotherham lights switch-on

CHRISTMAS officially kicks off in Rotherham next week as the colour, excitement and sounds of the annual festive lights switch-on returns to All Saints' Square.

The traditional annual event will be getting the party in full swing for the estimated 8,000 revellers who are expected to fill the town centre from 4.30pm next Thursday.

Musical entertainment will be provided by X Factor finalists, 2 Shoes, who will be taking to the stage at approximately 5.35pm.

The female duo, who had people dancing in the aisles on last year’s show, were fan favourites and were described as “gorgeous” with “beautiful voices” by Gary Barlow and got three thumbs up from the judges.

They will be performing their new song Turn Me On (Turn Me Out) and other hits.

Taking to the stage before 2 Shoes will be boyband, Rewind and Bruvvas Blue, with their tribute to the legendary Blues Brothers.

Joining them to round off the evening’s entertainment will be the cast of this year's panto at the Civic Theatre, Peter Pan, and singers from the Nicky Lynam School of Performing Arts.

At 6pm, the Mayor of Rotherham, Cllr Dave Pickering, together with his two youngest grandchildren, will be officially welcoming the festive season to the borough by pushing the magic button and setting the town aglow.

The council’s Cabinet member for culture and tourism, Cllr Amy Rushforth, said: “We’re getting the festive season off to a fantastic start here in Rotherham.

“Council staff have spent the last few months ensuring that the night remains a place that families can come, have fun, feel safe and enjoy a great atmosphere.

“To have an act like 2 Shoes, who literally entertained millions of people this time last year on the X Factor, to perform at the event is a gigantic coup for us.

“They impressed the X Factor judges and are a firm fan favourite so I’m sure they will get Rotherham in the festive spirit.

“With acts like Rewind, Bruvvas Blue and the Peter Pan cast, it will be a fantastic mix of music and comedy on the night.”

To complement the celebrations, Santa will be setting up home in a very special Grotto by Boots for the night to grant some wishes before returning to his home in the outdoor covered market.

There will be children's rides and a very special Christmas gift market in the town centre from noon.

There will also be free parking in council-owned car parks from 4pm on the night.