Jamie Archer to switch on Christmas lights

Jamie Archer

X Factor contestant Jamie Archer will officially switch on the Christmas lights during a fun packed evening of entertainment in the town centre on Thursday night (19 November).

Despite impressing the TV judges, the 33-year-old rock singer, known as Jamie Afro because of his distinctive hairdo, was knocked out of the X Factor on Sunday night after a nail biting public vote.

His visit to Rochdale this Thursday will be Jamie’s first public performance since his exit from the popular show.

The event, which starts at 6.00 pm on The Butts, hosted by Ditchy and Salty from the Real Radio Breakfast Show, also includes a live performance by pop stars ‘Alphabeat’. The band, best known for their hit ‘Fascination’, had a top 10 album in 2008 and three singles reached the top 20.

Rochdale AFC Manager Keith Hill and his Assistant Manager at the League Two high flyers, Dave Flitcroft, will also be appearing. They will be joined by the cast of musical ‘Rent’ direct from the Curtain Theatre, Rochdale and children’s favourite, ‘Fizz’, from the Tweenies. The show will be opened by the Mayor, Councillor Keith Swift, following a Queens of Winter Wonderland parade which starts at the top of Yorkshire Street just before 6pm.

Councillor Andrew Abbott, Chair of Rochdale Township said: “It’s going to be a great night for all the family, and I’m delighted that Jamie is going to be appearing in Rochdale. He is a fantastic talent and I’m sure he has a big future in front of him.”

The Council is advising people to arrive early. The town’s car parks are clearly signposted and all council car parks and metered street parking is free after 3pm.