Jenny Ryan will switch on Bolton's Christmas lights after Ray Quinn 'stepped aside' from the event.

The Bolton lass will be the star of tonight's show as the countdown to Christmas begins.

Ray Quinn, X-Factor finalist and star of the Albert Halls Aladdin panto, decided to step aside, and let Jenny have the honour of turning on the lights in her home town.

A representative of the star said: "Ray has decided due to recent events and the connection between Jenny Ryan and Bolton to let her taker centre stage in the proceedings.

"Ray wishes the people of Bolton all the best for the future."

The event will start in Victoria Square with entertainment from 5pm, compered by Jon Holling from Tower FM.

The lights will be turned on at 7pm by Jenny Ryan, Father Christmas, and Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Hilary Fairclough.

In a post on Twitter, Bolton Council said: "The lovely @therealRayQuinn  has graciously stepped aside to let Bolton’s own @jenlion switch in the Xmas lights in her home town. Touching gesture from Ray after a tough week for Bolton. What a class act."