SANTA will join Sandwell's deputy mayor for the family Christmas lights switch-on in Oldbury on Thursday.

Councillor Shirley Hosell, will officially flick the switch in a ceremony in the Civic Square at 6pm.

Family fun to mark the occasion is lined up from 4pm until 7pm with entertainers, a funfair and market stalls selling festive gifts.

Comedy street performers, sponsored by Black Country Touring, along with a ukulele group, brass band and gymnastics team will add to the entertainment.

Councillor Steve Trow, Oldbury town lead member, said: “We hope lots of families will turn out and help us countdown to Christmas at our lights switch-on. There’s lots of fun entertainment to get people into the festive spirit.”