Singer and member of the Britain’s Got Talent (BGT) judging panel, Alesha Dixon, will be the special guest at this year’s Christmas Lights Switch-on, organised by Coventry BID and supported by Coventry City Council. 

‘The Boy Does Nothing’ singer will be taking to the stage in Broadgate on Wednesday, November 22.

Free Radio favourites, JD and Roisin, will be the hosts for the extravaganza and the line-up will also include some of the area’s top talent as well as appearances from local sports stars.

The lights switch-on will take place between 5pm and 8pm and Alesha will be hitting the stage to perform and turn the lights on from 7.30pm.

“I am so pleased to have been invited along to Coventry to switch on the Christmas lights for 2017,” said Alesha.

“I cannot wait to perform for everyone as I’m told that it’s an excellent family event and Coventry puts on a fantastic celebration.

“I am a huge fan of Christmas and I am really looking forward to getting on that stage, entertaining the crowds and making sure everyone has a great time.”

Known to millions for her time as one fourth of the BGT judging quartet, Alesha also has a successful career as a presenter and singer.

She rose to fame as part of girl band Mis-Teeq, before winning hearts and votes to be crowned the champion of Strictly Come Dancing back in 2007 and has been a regular in the charts as a solo performer.

Trish Willetts, manager of Coventry BID which organises the annual event, in partnership with the City Council, is urging everyone to head down to the city centre and enjoy all the entertainment.

“Alesha Dixon is a household name and we are absolutely thrilled to have her coming to Coventry,” said Trish.

“This year’s Christmas lights switch-on is going to be absolutely fantastic and having Alesha joining us, just makes it all the better.

“Once again, the event is going to be amazing and we hope to see everyone come down and enjoy all the fun.

“We have so much planned for the evening, including plenty of local music and dance talent to round out the event and it’s going to be a wonderful way to start Christmas.”

Councillor Abdul Khan, Cabinet Member for Events at Coventry City Council, added: “I’m sure once again the annual Christmas Switch-on will be a very popular event in the city as it officially marks the start of the festive season in the city centre.

“Hosting an evening event such as this always attracts thousands of people into the city centre and we hope the evening will attract lots of people to enjoy the shopping and restaurants whilst they are here.

“We know the Christmas period is a key time for businesses and we hope that announcing the big Switch-on date and its headline act will help make it another successful and busy period for all our traders.”

Further information about the Christmas Lights Switch-on and all the events and attractions taking place during the night, in Broadgate, will be released soon.