This year the organisers have managed to secure X Factor's Laura White to flick the switch, so there is added incentive to head along for some first class entertainment.

Laura's eviction from the show last week cause national outrage, with thousands of fans calling for her to be reinstated.

It is hoped that Laura will perform five songs in Cathedral Square from 5pm on Saturday 15th.

But before Laura's guest appearance, there is a host of other acts lined up to keep the pre-Christmas shopping masses entertained.

The celebrations for the annual show start at 1.30pm when the De Zweibels Oompah Band kick off the live entertainment, before a performance by popular local band The Brays at 2.30pm.

They will pave the way for a Frank Sinatra tribute act at 3.30pm, followed by a George Michael tribute act at 4.15pm.

The Fairy Godmother, who will be starring in the Key Theatre's pantomine, Cinderella, will be stopping off for a flying visit, before the arrival of Laura at 5pm.

The De Zweibels Oompah Band will perform again on stage at 6pm.

But that's not all, as The Snow Queen will also be walking among the crowds with her little elf helper sprinkling magic to shoppers, who will be able to browse stalls from across Europe at a continental market.

The market arrives in the city on Saturday, before concluding on Sunday, and stalls will be situated in Long Causeway, Cathedral Square and Bridge Street, with a carousel outside the town hall.