EXPECT some Black Magic, Cannonball and even a Shout Out to My Ex as Galashiels goes all Christmassy on Saturday.

Headlining an afternoon of festive fun in the town is none other than Britain's favourite Little Mix tribute act, Little Chix.

The Galashiels switch-on party also includes a Christmas market, an alpaca petting zoo, a magician and balloon artist, a glitter make-up station, lots of live music and, of course, the official light switch-on.

And to cap a memorable welcome to the festive season there will also be a children’s torch-lit procession around the town.

Although he's extremely busy at this time of year, it is expected that Santa Claus will make an appearance for at least some of the afternoon.

Helen Calder from Galashiels Community Council admits next Saturday's showcase is the culmination of a huge community effort.

She said: ”We have been overwhelmed by the response from the public to the event, and our tireless group of volunteers including Anne Carrie, Michelle Douglas, Leanne Ford, Lorna Hani, Bill Jeffries and Pamela Kelly - all were dedicated to making this the best free Christmas event Gala has ever seen, truly a time when all families from our community can come together to enjoy the festive season.

"We are delighted with the uptake of local business who are keen to be involved in the Christmas market.

"We will have a fantastic range festive goods on offer from printed textiles, cashmere and wreaths to candles, small gifts, sweet treats and handmade wooden crafts.”

The strength of the town’s community spirit was evident with a range of fund-raising initiatives earlier this year to finance an entire new set of festive illuminations to decorate the town.

The Christmas Market on Bank Street Gardens starts at 10am along with the petting zoo and make-up station.

The Magicians Tent will be open from 12noon.

And the music starts at 1pm with Langlee Community Choir, then Gala Town Band at 2pm and Little Chix taking to the stage at 3pm.

The lights switch-on is scheduled for 5pm with the torch-lit procession starting at 5.15pm with Galashiels Ex-Servicemen's Pipe Band.

To reserve a free torch for the torch-lit procession go to www.torchreservation.eventbrite.co.uk

Th Tomorrow’s Gala initiative is supported by Energise Galashiels Trust and funding partners Scottish Borders Council and the South of Scotland Economic Partnership.