TV stars Dick and Dom to turn on the Melton Mowbray Christmas lights

The duo, famous for shows like ‘Dick & Dom in da Bungalow’ and ‘Absolute Genius with Dick and Dom’ will take to the stage in Market Place on the evening of Friday November 27.

They will be one of the highlights of Melton Mowbray’s Big Christmas Party, which begins at 6pm, with performances from the Melton Rock Choir, followed by a special appearance from the royally-connected Santa at 6.40pm.

Then, as the festive lights sparkle across the town centre, Dick & Dom will entertain the crowd as headliners for an hour of what organisers describe as high-energy music, humour and nostalgia.

They have performed a live comedy entertainment show at major events such as Camp Bestival, The Big Feastival, CarFest, Wychwood, Standon Calling, Hay Festival and BST in Hyde Park and will be bringing it to Melton for the festive season.

The town will also host the popular three-day Christmas market through to the Sunday, including live entertainment, and the traditional Melton Christmas Tree Festival will be running again at St Mary’s Church.

Melton Borough Council, Melton Mowbray Town Estate and Melton BID are working together again to bring residents, visitors and businesses together to transform the town centre.

James Colclough, manager of Melton BID, said: "The Christmas market is one of the biggest weekends in our town's calendar and an important time for local businesses.

"The combination of great entertainment, festive experiences and our fantastic independent businesses creates a unique atmosphere that encourages people to stay longer, explore more and enjoy everything Melton Mowbray has to offer."

And Graham Bett, the chair of Melton Mowbray Town Estate, commented: "Christmas brings people together and creates lasting memories for families and friends.

"The Town Estate has been providing town centre street markets for hundreds of years and we’re sure this Christmas Market will be one to remember.

"We're delighted to support this festive programme that combines tradition, entertainment and community spirit, making Melton Mowbray the destination for family festive fun."

Borough council leader, Councillor Ronan Browne, added: “Our Christmas Market has become a major attraction for both residents and visitors, and this year's programme builds on that success with even more entertainment and activities across the town centre.

"It's an opportunity to celebrate everything that makes Melton special, support our local businesses and give people a fantastic reason to visit and enjoy the town during the festive season."

One of the other highlights of the Christmas party will be the Leicester City FC Roadshow, which will be making a special appearance offering supporters and families the chance to enjoy interactive activities, prizes and a unique Foxes experience in the heart of the town.

Families are encouraged to visit the Melton Mowbray Lions' Santa's Grotto in the Bell Centre from November 27, when it will be open from noon to 8pm.

Alongside the events programme, motorists can again enjoy free festive Friday parking in selected council-owned long-stay car parks from November 27 until December 18.

This includes the car parks in Burton Road, Scalford Road and Mill Street.

Taking centre stage in Market Place will be a magnificent 30ft Norway Spruce Christmas tree, sponsored by Saint-Gobain.