Trowbridge's Christmas lights switch-on is certain to pack a punch on Saturday as boxer Nick Blackwell is this year’s special guest at the festive event.

Bang Bang Blackwell, 23, will turn on the lights in Fore Street at 6.15pm.

Thousands of people are expected to flock to Trowbridge with organisers anticpating an even bigger turnout than usual thanks to the town’s new £3.7 million Odeon cinema, based at the St Stephens Place Leisure Park, which opened in November.

Maryrose Mantle, Trowbridge Town Council’s community development officer, said: “With the new development the town will be really busy and we aim to give visitors a view of modern Trowbridge contrasted with the traditional elements of Christmas.”

Before the big switch-on a Christmas Fair will take place, from 10am to 4pm, at Trowbridge’s Civic Centre, in the park.

A choir from Bellefield Primary School will perform and there will also be a lantern workshop. The lanterns will be used as part of a procession, beginning at 5.50pm, from the centre going up to Fore Street.

Father Christmas will also be making a special appearance at both events and Hilperton’s Primary School choir will sing on the town centre stage.

After the switch-on, a carol service will be held at St James’ Church, at 6.30pm.

Free parking will be running throughout the day in Wiltshire Council’s car parks in the town, while The Shires Shopping Centre will also be providing free parking.

Sarah-Louise Moore, centre manager, said: “We realise how busy the town gets for the switch-on and how difficult it can be for motorists to find somewhere to park and we want to try and make life a little easier for them.”