Boyband East 17 have opted to 'Stay Another Day' in East Lancashire after securing a new Christmas lights gig, after their previous appearance was cancelled.

The 90s group has been announced as the headline act at the free-to-attend Great Harwood Christmas Shows, Music and Fireworks Extravaganza on Saturday, December 14.

Last Friday, November 23, their appearance in Rawtenstall was cancelled after Storm Bert descended on East Lancashire, with the whole Christmas On The Square event called off.

Having sold more than 22 million albums and having 18 top 20 singles across four top 10 albums, the lead Terry Coldwell will be performing on the main stage at 4.45 pm, ahead of the fireworks display.

His slot will include the group's iconic Christmas song 'Stay Another Day'.

Councillor Kimberley Whitehead, portfolio holder for culture, heritage and arts, said: "What a fantastic coup this is for Great Harwood.

 "East 17 are one of the most popular boybands of the 90s, with some really iconic songs, and this announcement is sure to see people turn out in their thousands for the Christmas event on Saturday, December 14.

 "There is so much going on in Great Harwood over the festive period and we look forward to seeing you all there."

There will be plenty of singing throughout the day including a Neil Diamond Tribute, local singers Gavin Young and Maggy Conanan, plus a Taylor Swift Tribute at 4pm, ahead of the headline performance from East 17.

It will feature live buskers, live music in bars and a giant main video stage in the Mercer Hall Area.

There will also be funfair rides, a Santa’s Grotto, Christmas craft stalls, food stalls, wreath-making workshops and Christmas card-making.

Festivities will get underway between 10am and finish at 5.30pm with a road closure on Queen Street in place for the event.

Getting underway with Snow Sisters performing their Frozen Tribute show with a meet and greet and there will also be a sing-along Elf show between 1pm and 3pm.

Events will be continuing throughout the month, getting underway this Saturday, November 30, with a traditional Christmas food, shopping and music event from 10am to 4pm.

Located in Towngate, the event will feature food and craft stalls, plus entertainment including singer Sophie Stott, 1940s singers Christopher and The Robins, the Sing Space Musical Theatre Choir and the Helen Green Academy of Dance.

The following weekend, Saturday, December 7, there will be a traditional Christmas fayre and ice rink from 10am to 4pm.

It has been sponsored by Hyndburn Borough Council and funded by the UK Government’s High Street Accelerator Pilot Programme.