CHILDREN'S television chef Katy Ashworth is set to cook up a storm �— when she switches on Bolton's Christmas lights.

The mum-of-one entertain the crowds and encourage families to join in with a festive sing-a-long before being joined on stage by Father Christmas and the Mayor of Bolton as she flicks the switch at 7pm.

A spectacular fireworks display from the roof of the town hall will bring the evening's celebrations to a close before Katy meets fans at the Market Place.

It is not the first time the CBeebies star has set foot in the town �— in August she presented cooking demonstrations for excited youngsters at the Food and Drink Festival.

Katy said: "I had such a great time in Bolton in the summer that I was only too happy to come back and help the town with its countdown to Christmas.

"I love this time of year and I can't wait to see the excited faces of the crowd in Victoria Square as they wait for the big switch-on and the fireworks.

"There's loads of fantastic things happening for families in the town centre this year �— it's going to be great."

The Christmas lights switch-on, sponsored by the Market Place Shopping Centre, will be held in Victoria Square from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday, November 20.

Leader of Bolton Council Cllr Cliff Morris said: "The big Christmas lights switch-on is eagerly awaited every year and once again we've organised a fantastic show, including local talent, Father Christmas and the traditional Christmas parade.

"Katy Ashworth was a big hit with our young visitors in the summer, so we're hoping families will join us for some more fun and festive entertainment.

"We've got free parking after 3pm each weekday, as well as at weekends, and an exciting Winter Wonderland to look forward to so the big switch-on will mark the start of our countdown to Christmas."

Nikki Wilson-Cook, manager at the Market Place, added: "It will be an evening of fun for all the family and we look forward to welcoming Katy and shoppers to the centre."