Next week, Hull’s Christmas lights will be switched on at Queen Victoria Square by one of this year’s Pride of Britain award winners.

Marcus Skeet, also known as ‘The Hull Boy’, won the award for his inspirational charity fundraising after overcoming serious mental health challenges.

He will join the Lord Mayor, Councillor Cheryl Payne, to get the festive period underway on Thursday 20 October.

Marcus said: “It’s an honour for me and my family to be asked to turn on the lights. I’ve seen it on the television for years. It means the world to us and I cannot wait.”

The event begins at 5:30pm with DJ Darren Lethem returning as the host on Hull City Hall balcony.

DJ Darren will introduce live performers from State of the Arts Academy, including Dave Walkington, Russ Fallon, Alex from Venus and X-Factor’s Samantha.

The MICE choir and Little Darlings Princess Parties will also perform live on the night.

Marcus, Lord Mayor and Father Christmas will switch on the lights at 6:45pm, which will be followed by a firework display over Queen Victoria Square.

Lord Mayor, Cllr Cheryl Payne, said: “Hull’s Christmas lights switch-on is a highlight in our city’s calendar and a fantastic occasion for families to kick-off the festive season.

“I am honoured to be joined by Marcus Skeet so we can celebrate his amazing achievements too. I know the people of Hull will welcome him with open arms as a wonderful local ambassador.”

A 50ft Norwegian Spruce tree, sponsored by KWL, will be lit for the first time, following its arrival on Friday 14 November.

The event is the start to many more Christmas festivities taking place, including Christmas markets planned for 29 and 30 November.

To avoid driving into the city centre, East Yorkshire and Stagecoach buses provide regular services from across the city and, with the government-funded fare cap, a single journey costs no more than £3.