BASILDON'S Big Brother hero Brian Belo will be the star of the show at the town's prestigious Christmas lights turn-on next month.

Brian, 20, will share the platform with the cast of the Towngate Theatre's Christmas pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

School choirs, local bands, stilt-walkers and other entertainers will also feature in the lavish event, on November 15.

Brian said: "I'm really chuffed to be asked and so happy to be doing it. I'm pretty nervous, but I know I'm going to enjoy it.

"This time last year I would have been there watching the switch-on myself.

"It's a chance to come back and thank everyone for supporting me."

Brian's mum, Sue Smith, 53, of Fenners Way, Basildon, added: "This is like a dream come true for Brian, because he is a Basildon boy. He'll feel like he's giving something back to the local community."

There will also be a firework display and opportunities for autographs with Brian.

Ray McKay, a council spokesman, said: "This should be a terrific night for everyone involved, and of course it is especially aimed at children and their families."

The festivities are organised by the council and will be held in Town Square.

They will begin at 2.30pm, with the switch-on countdown starting at 6.30pm.