FATHER Christmas is making a guest appearance in Hartlepool tonight to switch on the festive lights.
The town's mayor, Councillor Frank Rogers, will welcome Santa when he arrives on a specially-constructed stage in the corner of Victory Square, outside the Middleton Grange Shopping Centre.
Before the lights are switched on, performer Brendan Healy will be entertaining the crowds from 5pm and music will be provided by the Brendan Healy Band.
The evening will end with a bang with a fireworks display.
Coun Rogers said: "I know rumours have been circulating that two ugly sisters may try to hijack the event, but I'm sure we'll all have a great time.
"There will be plenty of music and laughs and I hope people turn out in force to get the town into the festive mood."
Decorations have been put up in the main streets around the town centre and Victory Square and the Christmas tree has been moved from Victory Square to Wesley Square where it is thought more passing traffic will see it.
Santa will be in residence from tomorrow at the Middleton Grange Shopping Centre until Christmas.
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