A month of festive fun in the run-up to Christmas is set to start in Norwich tonight when celebrities will be in the city for the big switch-on of the Christmas lights.

TV presenter Jake Humphrey, who fronts BT Sport's football coverage, will press the button on this year's new Christmas lights display, which was specially commissioned by the city council and Norwich Business Improvement District (BID).

Speculation is also mounting that a 'well-known Geordie person' will also be at the switch-on after a Facebook page dedicated to fictional radio and TV presenter Alan Partridge revealed the news yesterday.

The festive fun will start from outside City Hall and The Forum at 6pm, with entertainments including hot food and Christmas music, dancing elves, frolicking fairies and even some seasonal snow.

Visitors will also be able to follow Father Christmas and his magical sleigh and lantern parade as they meander through snowy streets at 6pm from Norwich Castle, arriving to join in the rest of the festivities in the heart of the city.

At 7pm, there will be the spectacular finale to the celebrations, when the big switch-on itself takes place and a mass of sparkles light up the sky as fireworks burst from the rooftops of the Jarrold store and City Hall.

Brenda Arthur, leader of Norwich City Council, said: 'Norwich is a beautiful city at all times of the year but it's extra special at Christmas. The fantastic array of shops, restaurants and attractions really come alive with festive spirit.

'The icing on the cake to this year's celebrations will be the new lighting scheme in the city centre, so put on your winter woollies and enjoy our Christmas switch-on spectacular with your friends and family.'

This year's event is supported by BBC Radio Norfolk, The Forum, Jarrold and Virgin Money.

There will also be many events during the evening, including a giant snowball throw and a special appearance from the Sugar Plum Fairy.