CHRISTMAS officially starts next week in Bromsgrove with the annual lights switch on events returning to the town centre, and Rubery.

Festivities will kick off in Bromsgrove with the Christmas Lights Switch On taking place Saturday, November 17 at its usual location outside the Golden Cross pub.

The lights in Rubery will be switched on the following week from New Road on Saturday, November 24.

In Bromsgrove the switch on will once again be hosted by Malcolm Boyden from BBC Hereford and Worcester.

Councillor Caroline Spencer will be turning on the lights with other special guests at 5.30pm.

There will be entertainment throughout the event with live music from local singers Becky Neale and Chloe Barry, and Chadsgrove School Choir, as well as the opportunity to meet the Snow Queen and of course Father Christmas.

Cast members from Redditch Operatic Society’s production of White Christmas will also be performing and will be in the high street.

After the main event, for the first time ever, the Indie Club and partners host their ‘after show’ street party in Worcester Road with food, DJs, fire performances and entertainment until 8pm.

There will also be a two day Christmas Market in Bromsgrove High Street on November 16 and 17 in line with the switch on.

In Rubery, the lights will be switched on at 5.30pm at the usual venue on New Road.

Visitors can enjoy music from Becky Neale and Chloe Barry, Holywell School Choir, Issi Young, Rubery Choir and St James’ School Choir as well as getting another opportunity to meet the Snow Queen and Father Christmas.

Both events will run from 3.30pm, with the lights being switched on at 5.30pm.

The Primrose Hospice Tree of Lights will be switched on in a ceremony at 5pm in both areas.

Cllr Caroline Spencer, chairman of Bromsgrove District Council, said: “Our switch on events always go down very well with residents and visitors who turn out in their hundreds to enjoy the entertainment, good food and fun.

"I am looking forward to seeing the Christmas market back on Bromsgrove High Street and am very excited to see what the after party has in store for us to continue the celebrations into the evening."

For further information, call 01527 534030 or email events@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk.