THIS year's Christmas lights switch-on will have real star power as top rapper Tinchy Stryder headlines the Festival of Lights event in November.

The musician has had a number-one hit, his albums have sold over one million copies, and he famously collaborated with the Chuckle Brothers.

He said: "I can’t wait to be joining Swindon to kick off their Festival of Lights switch-on."

Mr Stryder will be joined by a host of top Swindon talents including Voice Kids finalist Lilia Slattery and battle rounds contestant Phoebe Maddison, Britain's Got Talent 2018 act Tap Attack, Swindon's Got Talent winner Nathaniel Parker, and Swindon Dance.

Lilia said: "I’m really excited to be performing at this year’s Christmas light switch on.

"I had so much local support whilst I was on the Voice Kids, so it will be really nice to be able to perform locally again and give something back."

The concert kicks off in Wharf Green on November 17 from 5pm with homegrown acts before Tinchy takes to the stage at 6pm for the big switch-on and a firework finale.

Heart Breakfast’s Ben and Mel will once again host the main event, joined by children’s host ‘Jack Frost’

Festive entertainment .including bouncing elves, hula-hoop dancers and Santa's Grotto and Post Office will keep kids entertained throughout the day.

The Festival of Lights will also feature a light trail of 3D and LED installations, including a four-metre-high interactive teddy bear, and free events every weekend until December 31, including a Christmas Mariachi band, interactive Christmas Bauble photo booth, and LED dancing drummers.

The artisan Anonymous Travelling Market will be in town on the day of the switch-on and return regularly in the run up to Christmas.

Di Powell, inSwindon chief executive, said: "Our Christmas Experience is a fantastic way to kick off the festive season.

"We deliver many free events all year round, but this one’s certainly our favourite. We are so excited by the amazing activities planned across the town centre and the talented acts joining us on the main stage."

"It doesn’t end there - our spectacular interactive light trail is a first for the town centre and visitors are in for a real treat this Christmas."