Thousands are expected to attend Sidmouth's Christmas lights switch-on event.

The annual event, organised by Sidmouth Town Council, will take place on Saturday, November 16.

This year, the event will coincide with the Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce's late-night shopping evening, allowing people to shop later into the night.

Sid Valley Radio will kick off the festivities with music and entertainment from 1pm.

At 4.30pm, the band Static Charge, fronted by Ashley Leeds, will perform a selection of rock and pop covers.

The Annual Golden Ticket draw, where local primary school children can win a £100 toy voucher donated by Gliddon's Toy Shop, will take place at 5.15pm.

The grand switch-on of the Christmas lights will follow at 5.30pm.

This year's lights, designed and engineered by Torbay Display, will be switched on by Hannah Rugg, captain of the women's rugby team, and Leo Gribble, goalkeeper of the Sidmouth under-18s football team.

Chairman of Sidmouth Town Council, councillor Chris Lockyear, said: "This year, we wanted to focus on two of our local sporting clubs and it is entirely fitting that both men's and women’s sport in the valley are represented and celebrated.

"I am delighted that Hannah and Leo will be switching on our Christmas lights."

The town's Christmas tree has been provided by Kings Garden Centre.

The late-night shopping event will see many of the town's shops open their doors until late, allowing people to start their Christmas shopping after the lights have been switched on.

The lights are set to illuminate the town until the new year, giving Sidmouth a festive feel throughout the Christmas season.

The event is free to attend and people are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot.