Sidmouth will switch into Christmas mode with the help of the town’s champion cricket team at this year’s light switch on.

As December draws closer, the town council has announced the lights will turn on for the first time at 5.30pm on Saturday, November 17.

Sidmouth town council’s clerk Christopher Holland said the night promises to be a sparkling start to Christmas in the town with the help of the club’s successful first, second and third teams.

Sidmouth Cricket Club celebrated another successful summer, with the first team winning the Devon Premier League for the seventh time in 10 years, its third team also coming top and seconds finishing runner up in their respective divisions.

Also on the night, the Gliddon’s steam engine will be on display as well as live music from Vine and Dandy from 4.30pm.

Primary school children will have the chance to win a £100 toy voucher, donated by Gliddon’s Toys.

Councillor Ian McKenzie-Edwards, chairman of the town council, said: “This year, it is entirely fitting that a group of our own local celebrities, our champion cricket team, receives some recognition after many years of successful tournaments.”

The festive display has been provided by the Town Council with support from Sidmouth Chamber of Commerce.