CHRISTMAS starts officially in Leigh tomorrow when the country's favourite veteran comedian, Ken Dodd, switches on the town's lights for the third year in succession.

He just loves the tattifilarious reception he gets from Leythers and keeps coming back. For a star of his magnitude to accept the task in return for a donation to his favourite charity is a magnificent gesture. He said last year that he'd like to come back and has kept his word.

The decorations are up, the individual shop trees are being put in place and the festivities begin with a weekend of fun and competition. Start celebrating early. Get along and join in the fun.