THE CHRISTMAS lights at Dolphin shopping centre will be switched on this Thursday, November 27.

Father Christmas and his elves will be assisted by actress, impressionist and panto star, Debra Stephenson to do the honours of lighting up the Dolphin Shopping Centre at 6pm.

Children’s favourites, The Penguins of Madagascar, will be making a special appearance to help launch the extravaganza, which begins at 2.30pm, in aid of raising money for Julia’s House children’s hospice, a cause Debra supports as patron.

The switch on replaces the cancelled Santa Parade the Dolphin Centre has hosted for the last few years. 

John Grinnell, centre manager, said: “This Christmas light switch-on is really exciting for us and we are anticipating extremely high numbers. This year, with our amazing decorations and fantastic festive line-up, it looks set to be a great evening.”

The Dolphin Centre will be extending its opening hours until 9pm. Shoppers will also be able to park for free during the late-night shopping events.

For more information, go to dolphinshoppingcentre.co.uk