X Factor star to switch on Keighley's Christmas lights

The singer-songwriter, who made it through to the final eight last year in the hit TV show, will join Santa to flick the switch on November 23.

Sam, 20, said: "I've never done a big switch-on like this so I'm really looking forward to it.

"One of the best parts is getting to meet people who support me."

The switch-on ceremony, at 4.30pm, will be part of a day of festive activities in the Airedale Shopping Centre.

A hunt for Keighley's 'Champion Christmas Elf' will take place from 10am, when youngsters will be transformed through costume and face paint into Santa's little helpers. Their photos will then be uploaded to the centre's Facebook page and the elf receiving the most likes will win a hamper.

The Pulse FM roadshow – with presenters Danny Mylo and Rosie Madison – will entertain from 2pm, choirs will perform carols and seasonal songs and there will be a range of other attractions including balloon modelling.

Centre manager, Steve Seymour, said: "The Airedale Centre is at the heart of the Keighley community so we wanted to play our part in making the town's Christmas lights switch-on a fantastic, festive success.

"The lights switch-on is the main event of the year and in conjunction with Keighley Town Centre Association, we have a great day's events planned.

"It includes local artists performing on stage, entertainers, carol singers and a real bang with Sam Callahan and Santa pushing the plunger to light up the town, with a nice surprise as the lights flash on."

Sam plans to perform some tracks at the event.

During the X Factor he sang cover versions of several classic pop songs, but is now writing a lot of his own material.

"X Factor was the most amazing experience of my life but I'm now able to do more of my own style – which is rock," he said.

"People will finally get a chance to hear the real me."

Sam is releasing a new single next year and is travelling to America to work with Bon Jovi producer, Luke Ebbin.