ONE of Andover's most anticipated seasonal events will be making a bang in the town centre next week.

The Christmas Lights Switch On will be taking place on the High Street on Friday, 17 November between 5pm and 7.30pm.

Organised by Test Valley Borough Council one of the High Street's largest events will also have a Big TV screen to make sure revellers will not miss a thing.

Father Christmas will also be stopping by on the night.

The stage will be playing host to a range of local performers, including the Portway Glee Club, Fair Play Performing Arts, Long Overdue Theatre School, Maddison Douch and the Andover Rock Choir.

The Breeze will compère the evening, and there will be rides, attractions and children’s face painting.

The evening will culminate in the Christmas Lights Switch On followed by a grand firework display, which is sponsored by The Chantry Centre.

The Christmas tree and lights have also been provided by Andover Town Council.

Leader of the borough council, councillor Phil North, said: “The Andover Christmas Lights Switch On is one of the premier family friendly events in Andover’s calendar, and marks the beginning of festivities for the High Street.

“This is the perfect example of local organisations working in collaboration with Test Valley Borough Council to put on an event which showcases Andover at its best.”

Visitors have been asked to note that the lane from the George Yard car park towards the High Street will be closed from 5.30pm for the duration of the event.

This is due to the popularity of the event and the volume of people on the evening.

This annual event will be brought to you by Test Valley Borough Council, Andover Town Council, Andover Vision and The Chantry Centre, and is hosted by The Breeze, Andover.