AROUND 300 people are expected to watch impressionist Rory Bremner turn on the Christmas lights in Lechlade.

And residents are hoping the comedian, who lives at Eaton Hastings near Lechlade, will entertain them with a few routines before the big light- up on Thursday.

Town mayor Coun Mike Cawsey said: "Hopefully, he will do a few impressions, like his one of Tony Blair."

Mr Bremner, 42, agreed to undertake the honour after he was approached by Peter Whistler, the chairman of Lechlade Chamber of Commerce.

The impressionist's personal assistant is a regular customer at Mr Whistler's gallery, which he runs in High Street.

The lighting-up ceremony will also feature music from Swindon's Salvation Army Band accompanied by the choir from St Lawrence's Church.

Santa Claus will be handing out treats for children and Gordon Land, a lay preacher at St Lawrence's, will give a blessing.

Coun Cawsey added: "We are really pleased with the way businesses have decorated their premises this year.

"Many shops owners have put brackets on their walls and will be putting up Christmas trees.

"I'm sure the town will look wonderful.

"We're really pleased Rory is going to see it looking so good."

The ceremony, organised jointly by the town council and the Chamber of Commerce, starts at 7pm.