A giant inflatable Santa and his friends will take to the sky like rockets as part of the town's yuletide countdown.

The Evening Advertiser has sponsored the six inflatable characters, or 'skyguys' a soldier, snowman, doll, clown and spaceman as part of the town's Christmas celebrations.

The huge airbound figures will stand 12ft tall, looming over the town centre throughout the festive period.

Powered by high pressure fans, they will take to the sky on November 23, reaching full size in a matter of seconds.

At dusk they will be switched on, illuminating the winter sky.

There they will sway in the wind, dancing and throwing their arms to the clouds.

Then the Christmas lights will be switched on at

5.30pm outside BHS by this year's panto star Aleetza Wood from TV's Home and Away.

Meanwhile, notes of song will fill the air, courtesy of the Evening Advertiser.

A carol concert featuring a professional choir will be held under the canopy in front of Debenhams at 7pm.

Everyone is welcome to join in with the traditional carols to make the event one to remember.

Event organiser Sally Barker said: "The skyguys will be a fantastic sight for late night shoppers on Thursday evenings in the run-up to Christmas."

There will also be fair rides and old fashioned stalls in Canal Walk to add to the flavour.

Live reindeer and fairy lights on Wharf Green by House of Fraser will ensure a magical atmosphere.

The skyguys will be inflated and lit up every day until Christmas Eve.