Christmas lights switch-on TONIGHT

Princesshay will host Exeter city centre’s annual Christmas lights switch on event tomorrow (Thursday 20 November) from 4pm-8pm.

The popular ceremony will see European Athletics Championship Gold medallist Jo Pavey together with members of Exeter Chiefs rugby team switch on the city centre’s Christmas lights at 6.30pm, joined on stage by the Deputy Lord Mayor of Exeter and Father Christmas!

Visitors and shoppers to Princesshay will be treated to a festive programme of entertainment throughout the event as the stage will light up with musical acts local band ‘To the Sun’, the Exeter University Jazz Orchestra, Exeter University Soul Choir and local X Factor finalist Shelley Smith closing the show. Performances from Razzmatazz Theatre School, Wonder Production Pantomime and Pinhoe Pantomime cast, will keep the magic of Christmas alive on the night. Compering the main event will be Heart Radio’s breakfast presenters, while the Heart Angels will be on the ground greeting visitors and shoppers and handing out free festive treats and giveaways.

Jo Pavey said: “It's such a huge honour to be asked to switch on the Christmas lights as I am very proud to be born and brought up in the Exeter area. I have been a member of Exeter Harriers athletics club since I was 13, so it's nice to be able to represent the city when I compete. I attended Exeter College and still live just outside the city and so it is really lovely to be asked to do something like this in my local community. I was thrilled to win gold in the 10000m at this year's European Championships and I am so grateful for the great support I received from the people of Exeter and Devon.”

She continues: “Exeter is a wonderful city surrounded by beautiful countryside. Since starting my family in 2009 I stopped going on elite overseas training camps and now do all of my training right here at home in Devon. It's great for my training, particularly as I can use the fantastic facilities at Exeter Arena.”

The Christmas lights switch on event marks the start of late night shopping in the city, with a fantastic choice of brands in Princesshay offering shoppers everything they need, every day. The mobile Princesshay Gift Card Kiosk will be located by the Blue Boy statue in Princesshay and offers a stress free gift option that can be redeemed in any of Princesshay’s shops and restaurants.

Wayne Pearce, Princesshay Centre Director comments: “We always look forward to the Christmas season here in Princesshay and this year is no exception with a packed timetable of events and festive activities for shoppers to enjoy. With a mix of over 70 shops and restaurants including the newly opened Joules and Byron we think Princesshay is the perfect destination to shop, dine and socialise this Christmas.”

Friday 21st November sees Princesshay’s Roman Walk twinkle with festive cheer with the Charity Christmas Tree Festival. The festival, now in its second year, provides local charities with the opportunity to decorate a Christmas tree to help raise both awareness and money.

The Lord Mayor of Exeter will officially switch on the lights to the 30 Charity Christmas trees at 5.30pm

Christmas Light Switch on running order – Thursday 20 November

4pm to 4.23pm Exeter University Jazz Orchestra

4.25pm to 4.40pm Hot House 4

4.43pm to 4.55 Wonder Production Pantomime Cast

4.57pm to 5.10pm Razzmatazz

5.12pm to 5.22pm Broadclyst School

5.27 to 5.43pm Exeter University Soul Choir

5.45 to 6pm Wildwood Kin

6.02pm to 6.22pm To the Sun

6.23pm to 6.30pm Interviews & Lights Switch On

6.31pm to 7.15pm K2