Father Christmas will step in to switch on Deal’s Christmas lights on Friday because the stars of the Marlowe panto can not attend.

It will be the first time in 18 years that the pantomime characters will be absent from the celebration.

Although there was no formal agreement they would attend, the disappointing news is because of their hectic rehearsing schedule.

Director of the Deal and Walmer Chamber Cllr Pat Heath said: “We are disappointed as we know it’s the thing that most people look forward to but we understand.

“It’s onwards and upwards. We’re going to put on a great show with Father Christmas.

“The lights are going to be bigger and better than ever – probably the best in east Kent.

“Come down and enjoy yourselves, see the lights and don’t forget to shop locally.”

Secretary of Deal and Walmer Chamber Peter Davies added: “They were deeply apologetic and said they will be back next year with a bigger and better appearance.

“We would like to wish them well.”

The family fun evening will begin at 5pm with background music. Action on the stage will start at 6pm.

The Mayor of Deal Cllr David Cronk will make an appearance at 7pm before the man himself, Father Christmas, presses the button at 7.30pm.

An annual auction, which helps towards the £4,000 it costs to run the lights, was held at Deal Angling Club last Friday.

It raised a whopping £1,500.

Mr Davies said: “We are deeply thankful to all the businesses and individuals that donated items.

“We were also delighted that the mayor did begin a lot of the bidding for the items on sale and he snapped up a number of bargains, we thank him for his great spirit and generosity.

“Additionally I would like to say that the portering on the night took a step up in quality when Myles Corley from Linden Hall Studio took over half way through.

“He certainly got the bidders bidding more, he was a credit to the chamber and has been throughout the year.”