Almost a week after the excitement of the first ever round of the World Rally Championship to come to Northern Ireland, thousands of people are expected to brave the November cold again - but this time they'll pack into Belfast city centre to herald the official start of the Christmas season.

While the rally event – a special stage at Stormont – was an international event with a TV audience of many millions across the world, Lord Mayor Jim Rodgers will be happy to get the now customary 15,000 people or so who normally attend the big 'switch-on'.

The mayor will be joined by chart-topping singer Shayne Ward and Bangor-born model turned TV presenter Zöe Salmon to switch on the city's Christmas lights.

“Every year, about 15,000 people pack into the area in front of City Hall for the switching on of the Christmas lights: it's a great night for all the family, and we always have a packed programme of entertainment,” said the Lord Mayor.

“Over the years, we have attracted many top stars to perform at Belfast's switch on, and 2007 most definitely is no exception. I am delighted that the undoubted highlight of this year's event will be a personal appearance by Shayne Ward, who will perform a selection of his hits," he concluded.

Citybeat presenter Stuart Robinson will get the show on the road at around 6.30pm, playing popular festive hits.

He said: “I'm really looking forward to getting Christmas 2007 officially underway for Belfast. We'll be playing non-stop Christmas favourites to get everyone in the mood on what will be a great party night!”

Entertainment also will be provided by characters from the pantomime, `Sleeping Beauty`, the choir of Strandtown Primary School and the youngsters from Citybeat's `Young Star Christmas Tour'.

The annual Belfast City Council Christmas Lights Switch On takes place on Tuesday 20 November, with the entertainment programme beginning at around 6.30pm.

See: Millions Tune In As Rally Championships Speed To Stormont

(BMcC)