X-FACTOR star Johnny Robinson is hoping to bring some festive cheer to Harrow residents next week when he switches on the town centre Christmas lights.
The popular talent show finalist from West Harrow will kick off the official countdown to Christmas in the borough during an evening of entertainment on Thursday, December 1.
Speaking about the honour Johnny Robinson said: "I'm thrilled to be able to come back to Harrow to help launch the countdown to Christmas.
"I had such great support from local people during the X Factor and it will be fantastic to say thank you in person, as well as give my backing to local traders during the Christmas shopping period.
"I look forward to seeing lots of you in Harrow Town Centre on December 1."
Johnny’s distinctive voice and personality won over a legion of X Factor fans this autumn and was praised by readers throughout his stint in this years competition.
He will flick the switch on the Christmas Tree near Katie’s Statue, St Ann’s Road, at 6.30pm and will be followed by carol singers from local churches.
The fun starts from 3.30pm with street entertainers, balloon artists and Sparky the giant robot appearing in St Ann’s Road to entertain all the family.
At 4.15pm the spectacular Christmas ‘light garden’ art installation will light up outside St George’s Centre.
The new installation features giant snowdrops and lotus flowers arranged around a giant alium flower.
Artist Jig Cochrane, who brought the eye-catching display of giant tulips to the town centre during October’s Diwali celebrations, has again created the giant flowers.
Harrow Council has installed the Christmas lights, along with festive lights along Station Road and St Ann’s Road, using money won from the Mayor of London’s Outer London Fund.
The £860,000 was secured by the council to spend on revitalising Harrow Town Centre and the shopping district in North Harrow to support traders and the local economy.
Speaking about Saturday's entertainment councillor Keith Ferry, portfolio holder for planning and economic development on Harrow Council, added: “Johnny did Harrow proud during his time on the X Factor and we’re delighted that he’ll be joining us to launch the town centre’s Christmas countdown.
“It’s sure to be a great evening and I hope Harrow residents turn out in force to join the festivities – and keep coming back to the town centre throughout December.
“The Mayor's Outer London Fund aims to bring more shoppers to town centres like Harrow.
“It funds initiatives to dress up high streets and Harrow's application, with its eye catching ‘light garden’ and festive lights caught the attention of the judges. We're hoping you come and enjoy the lights, see Johnny, and shop for Christmas in the Town Centre."
