SKI jumping legend Eddie 'the Eagle' Edwards is the star turning on the Christmas lights in Royal Wootton Bassett on Friday (November 30).

He will flick the switch at an event in the town's hight street that includes performances by local children.

Michele Temple, one of the organisers at the Town Council, said: “It will be an honour for him to switch on our lights. We’ve not always been successful in having a celebrity come to switch them on.

“He’s a legend isn’t he?”

For the first time the switch-on will have a wide-screen showing performers on stage, thanks to a petition which raised more than £2,100 in just two days.

The money was raised from individuals and donations from local businesses, including Richard James Estate Agents and Barrett’s Windows.

Rachael Fernandez, who started the fundraiser, said: “Some people are extremely excited about Eddie the Eagle coming, which is great news for us. It wasn’t that long ago that they made a film on him. I think that will probably bring quite a few people into town.

“It’s nice to see that the community is quite strong here, they’ve been so supportive,” she added.

Lisa Williams, who is coordinating performers on stage, said: “It will change the dynamics on stage considerably. It means they can really shine, enjoy it, it will give people a different experience.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity and makes sure the children can really be celebrated.

“It will make what will be a nice event, an incredible one. I always look forward to it but I know this year the atmosphere will be bouncing all night – it will be amazing.”

The lights will be switched on at 6pm, followed by performers including the Children’s Community Choir, the Wessex Male Voice Choir and Swindon hip-hop outfit The Tribe.

Eddie was the first English competitor to represent Great Britain as a ski jumper in the 1988 Winter Olympics, later becoming a British record holder for jumping over 10 cars and six buses.