X Factor star Che Chesterman to switch on town's Christmas lights

The Christmas spectacular, which will take place on Saturday, November 19, will feature festive market stalls, as well as music and entertainment from local performers.

Singer Che, from Laindon, will take to the stage on the night and officially switch on the Christmas lights.

The event begins at 9am, with the lights being switched on in the late afternoon.

Terri Sargent, councillor for environment and community, said: “Each year we see our Christmas lights switch on get more popular and it’s great to see so many people enjoy the fantastic entertainment on offer.

“This year is set to be the best yet and visitors can expect some brilliant entertainment ahead of the switch on and firework display.”

The Eastgate Shopping Centre also kicks off its Christmas celebrations on the same day with entertainment and activities running from 11am until 4pm. 

There will be plenty of characters in costume roaming the centre and Father Christmas’s reindeer will be joining in the celebrations. 

Children’s television favourites Chase and Marshall from Paw Patrol will be making appearances throughout the day and Father Christmas will officially open his grotto to families from noon. 

The grotto will then be open right up until Christmas Eve. 

On Saturday, November 26, the fun continues with a visit from the Marjin Circus duo which will be holding circus skills shows and mini-workshops, plus a visit from Angie Mack, one of the UK’s top hula-hoopers, who will be doing a comedy show. 

On Saturday, December 3, popular robot Titan will be visiting alongside magician Matthew Garrett and illusionists Ian and Lisa Hamilton. 

The Black Eagles acrobatic team from Tanzania will be showing off their skills on Saturday, December 10, alongside Big Grey, a whip-cracking, juggling, pole balancing performer. 

Father Christmas’s reindeer will pay another visit to Basildon on Saturday, December 17, to bring a little extra festive sparkle