PARALYMPIC hero Claire Cashmore will dazzle Stourport when she turns on the town’s Christmas lights this year.

The 28-year-old Kidderminster swimmer, who brought home a gold and silver medal from the Rio Games last month, will be the star guest at the switch on event which takes place on Friday, November 25 from 4pm.

She will turn on the lights alongside the Mayor Ken Henderson, Father Christmas and Stourport Carnival Queen Jodie Davies and her consort Princess Hannah Hawkins-Long and Rosebud Chloe Guise.

Organisers are now appealing for more buskers to perform at the event as well as schools who might be interested in taking part in the traditional Three Kings Parade on the night.

The parade will feature hundreds of youngsters going around the town during the event while therte will also be a carol service, children’s fun fair and a huge firework display.

Claire’s success in the Paralympics saw her bring home her gold medal in the women’s 4x100 competition while her silver came in the women’s 100m breaststroke for Team GB.

Pete Roberts, who is part of the event committee, said: “We are delighted that Claire Cashmore has agreed to turn on our Christmas lights this year. She thrilled so many people in this district with her success at the Paralympics so it is fantastic that she has agreed to come to our event.

“It promises to be a fantastic night as always. We are now looking for more buskers to perform in the streets during the event. It is open to all performers and there will be a small payment for them.

“We are also keen to hear from schools who might be interested in joining our annual Three Kings Parade, which is always a key part of our Christmas event.”

Anyone interested in taking part can contact Mr Roberts at Pete’s Prints by calling 01299 879340.