Carlisle United manager Paul Simpson will make a guest appearance at this year’s Carlisle Christmas lights switch-on.

A Carlisle lad, he returned for his second spell in the hot seat at Brunton Park in February 2022 and helped secure promotion to League One in dramatic fashion, with a penalty shootout victory over Stockport County at Wembley, at the end of the 2022/23 campaign.

Paul will join in the Christmas celebrations and will be joined by the one and only Chesney Hawkes who will headline this year’s Carlisle Christmas lights switch-on.

Paul said: "I’m looking forward to attending the event and I’d like to thank the event organisers for giving me the opportunity to take part. Carlisle United FC has thousands of loyal fans, and this will be a chance for me to thank them for their continued support. Hope to see you there!"

The sparkling spectacular will be held between 3pm and 5.30pm on Sunday, 19 November outside the Old Town Hall.

The international popstar will be joined by saxophonist Vicki Watson and the event will be hosted by family-favourite Robbie Dee.

The Christmas Lights Switch-On event will also be a showcase of local community groups and performers including Castle Carrock Primary School, Studio A Dance Company, Committed 2 Rock Community Choir, and Newtown Primary School.

The star-studded Christmas Lights Switch-On is organised by Cumberland Council and will provide a packed family entertainment programme, to suit all ages. The switch-on will take place at 5pm.

Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s executive member for vibrant and healthy places, said: "We’re delighted that Paul will be joining us at the lights switch-on in Carlisle. The countdown to Christmas is underway and our area is set to be the place of choice this festive season."

Other events planned in the Cumberland area include Christmas events in Carlisle, Cockermouth, Whitehaven and Keswick.