THE line-up for this year’s town centre Christmas lights switch on event has been announced – with 90s boyband 5ive headlining the festive extravaganza.

The event, organised by St Helens Council, will take place on Saturday, November 18, in Victoria Square.

5ive are known for tracks such as Keep on Movin’, When the Lights Go Out and If Ya Gettin’ Down.

They released their debut single 20 years ago and sold millions of records during an era when boy bands dominated the charts.

The group includes three members of the original line-up: Ritchie Neville, Sean Conlon and Scott Robinson.

5ive will be joined by a host of home grown talent, including Over the Rainbow singing competition winners Broad Oak Primary School.

Up-and-coming acoustic guitarist, Matty Lamb, charity choir the Choir With No Name are also among those taking to the stage.

The event, starting at 4pm and compered by Radio City 96.7, will also see interviews with some of the town’s most influential and inspirational figures.

Saints players, 11-year-old Pride of Britain winner George Mathias, who has made the news for his charity work for Alder Hey, and Chris Lamb, founder of the nationally-recognised Chocolate Orange Challenge will speak on the stage

Gary Maddock, St Helens town centre manager, said: “This year’s Christmas lights switch on promises to be an absolute cracker, featuring the very best local and regional talent, plus amazing national acts.”

“We’ve put together an excellent night of entertainment for all the family to enjoy so come along to Victoria Square on Saturday, November 18 for a sing and a dance, and celebrate the countdown to Christmas in style

Local authority supported festive lights switch ons have been criticised in media reports due to the costs at times when budgets for services are being slashed.

However, St Helens Council has argued in the past that it hosts a major event to draw more visitors to the town centre and that the number of families enjoying the spectacle each year is evidence of its popularity.