THE spirit of Christmas comes to Bewdley on Saturday night as the town's latest celebrity flicks the switch to light up the streets for the festive season.

Hundreds of revellers are expected to roll up for the traditional turning-on of the Christmas lights with FHM babe Kayleigh Pearson on hand to do the honours.

Kayleigh - who was last week named the UK's sexiest "girl next door" by the lads' mag - said she was thrilled to be asked to be the VIP at the event.

"I've never done anything like that before and I used to go when I was growing up in Bewdley so I am looking forward to it," she said.

Organisers have promised a memorable evening with a seasonal procession, music, exhibits and plenty of good food.

And the night will be rounded off with a knees-up at Bewdley High School with a rocking "battle of the bands" competition.

The procession leaves Bewdley Rowing Club at 5pm and the lights will be switched on outside the Guildhall, in Load Street, at 5.15pm.

Visitors will then be able to browse stalls at a Christmas market by Bewdley Library and also inside Bewdley Museum, where Kidderminster Male Choir will entertain the crowds.

Hot chestnuts, candy floss and a pig roast will be on offer while vintage traction engines will be fired up along Severnside North.

Several shops will stay open until 8pm while music fans are being invited to get over to the high school in Stourport Road for the concert at 7.30pm.