X FACTOR stars Rebecca Ferguson and Union J will be among the stars switching on the lights at The Broadway Shopping Centre next month.

The festive launch will take place on Saturday 10 November, and The Broadway today released the line up of guests and performers.

Rebecca Ferguson, whose debut album Heaven saw her become the fastest-selling debut solo artist of the decade between 2007 and 2017, and boyband Union J will be joined by local singing sensation Thomas Lillywhite and ex-Love Island star Wes Nelson.

From 2pm visitors will be able to watch the Festive Pitch Battle in partnership with Pulse 1, which will see six local school choirs fight it out in a one-off singing competition to win a £1,000 cash prize.

Musical performances will follow at 4.30pm, with the Christmas light display being switched on at 6.30pm.

Ian Ward, General Manager of The Broadway, promises that it is not a day to be missed: “We’re looking to kick our seasonal calendar off with a bang this year and bring ‘Sparkling Bradford’, (a range of festive activities around the city) to life. We can’t wait to get the festivities started in the run-up to Christmas and get people from across the city involved in the fun.

“With a huge amount on offer for shoppers, Bradford looks set to be the ultimate one-stop retail and leisure destination for everything you need this Christmas.”

A Christmas Craft Market and outdoor Christmas Bar will also open on the day for locals looking to get into the festive spirit, with the City of Bradford Brass Band performing seasonal classics from noon.

Visitors will be able to have a go on funfair rides, as well as getting the chance to meet their favourite Christmas characters – including Santa Claus.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Executive Member for Healthy People and Places at Bradford Council, said: “This Christmas, we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors from far and wide to ‘Sparkling Bradford’ for the very best the city has to offer.

“We have a fantastic programme of events planned - whether you’re meeting up with friends for a catch-up or looking to do a spot of Christmas shopping, there’s certainly something for everyone.”

Following the Festive Launch, The Broadway will begin announcing a host of family-friendly festive fun, with activities taking place throughout November and December.

Last year Rebecca Ferguson turned down an invite to perform at Donald Trump's inauguration. She had told the White House she would only perform if she could sing Strange Fruit, a protest song about the lynching of African Americans.