The lights switch on in the town centre has been set.

Around 15,000 people are expected to attend the family event where lights will be turned on at the Clock Tower, Vintry Gardens and from a main stage opposite Beech House.

Flipping the switches will be Mayor Mohammad Iqbal Zia and children's TV star Phil "Mister Maker" Gallagher, from the Alban Arena's pantomime Aladdin, which also stars Karl Howman, who played Buster Briggs in EastEnders, and comedian Bob Golding, famous for his Eric Morecambe impersonations.

Extra to the lights will be a funfair, free activities for children, fire jugglers and a live music stage, as well as 70 stalls selling gifts, food and drinks.

Cllr Beric Read, who is responsible for business and the community for St Albans City and District Council, said: "The Christmas lights switch-on is one of the most popular City Centre events of the year. It comes the day after the Christmas Market opens to get the festive season in St Albans off to a champagne start."

A new feature will also be the state-of-the-art lights funded by St Albans BID, which will line trees from the Town Hall to the top of St Peter's Street.

The event kicks off from 5pm on November 26, with the street party kicking off from 6pm.