A TELEVISION star, a brass band and a record-breaking Town Crier are set to ensure Helmsley’s Christmas lights ceremony is the brightest yet.

Helmsley in Business has announced its festive plans for the season, with the Saturday December 2 switch-on ceremony kicking off Christmas events in the town.

TV’s Yorkshire Vet Julian Norton will switch on the town’s Christmas lights at 5pm, before the first public opening of the annual Christmas Tree Festival, which this year follows the theme of ‘Stars’.

From 4pm the Town Crier will be welcome people with his record-breaking cries, and the Swinton Brass Band will get everyone in the mood for the Christmas season with festive songs.

There will also be mulled wine and mince pies and the chance to win on the Jam Jar Raffle and tombola stalls.

A Star Trail throughout the town will keep youngsters entertained and be an opportunity to explore some of the town’s independent businesses.

The ‘star’ of the season – Santa – will be opening his grotto in the Town Hall at 5pm.