IAN CLARKE The Dereham Christmas Lights Partnership is organising the traditional switch-on event this Sunday which attracts thousands to the town centre - and is keen to involve a range of local people.

IAN CLARKE

Dereham's record breaking shooter Mick Gault has already put the town on the world map after his amazing exploits.

And the man who has won more Commonwealth Games medals than any other competitor will be formally starting the Christmas celebrations as he switches on the festive illuminations.

The Dereham Christmas Lights Partnership is organising the traditional switch-on event on Sunday - which attracts thousands to the town centre - and is keen to involve a range of local people.

Mr Gault regularly mentioned Dereham during interviews broadcast around the world as he achieved his feat in Australia earlier this year.

So he is the perfect local celebrity to light up the Market Place at 4.25pm.

A packed afternoon of stage entertainment gets underway at 1pm with music from the JDT music school.

Compere Graham Griffiths will introduce a range of acts including singers Verity Thurgill and Dan Guy, four-piece group Jellifish, Busybodies Stage School and Dereham Band.

As well as the stage entertainment, there will also be various charity stalls, Santa's Grotto in Barclays Bank and a fun fair.