SINGER Sam Lavery, star of last year’s X Factor star, is to switch on the Christmas lights at a County Durham shopping centre.

The singer, from Coxhoe, will perform live at the Christmas light switch-on at Castle Dene Shopping Centre, in Peterlee, on Friday, November 24.

Throughout the day, there will be events for families at the centre, including a chance for children to make Christmas hats to wear on the night, as well as competitions and games.

From 4pm to 6.30pm, there will be family fun and games hosted by Sun FM and a live performance by the X Factor star before she throws the switch to turn on the lights.

Centre operations manager, Sarah Bromwich, said: “Our Christmas lights switch on event is enormously popular in the local community and it marks the start of their seasonal celebrations.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming Sam Lavery to the centre to perform for our shoppers at what promises to be a really fun-filled festive event.”