East 17 will switch on Christmas lights in two Kent towns as part of free festive celebrations.

The group best known for 1990s Christmas classic ‘Stay Another Day’ will perform at Westwood Cross in Broadstairs and Folkestone town centre.

The group will first visit Thanet on November 17, before heading to Folkestone for the evening switch-on.

At Westwood Cross, East 17's performance time is unconfirmed but other activities include a festive charity procession and an Elton John tribute between 4-7pm. The shopping centre will also be illuminated at 6pm.

The pop boy band was started by Tony Mortimer, Brian Harvey, John Hendy, and Terry Coldwell in 1991 before enjoying national acclaim.

Today, the group continues under the lineup of Terry Coldwell, Joe Livermore, and former Artful Dodger collaborator Robbie Craig.

Westwood Cross manager Francesca Donovan said: “We’re building on the incredible success of our light switch-on event last year, bringing back acts loved by our community.

“We’ve already started our countdown to Christmas – and we can’t wait to see you all there.”

In Folkestone, East 17 will hit the stage at 6pm, with the big switch-on expected during the afternoon or evening.

Shops will display window decorations and operate under extended opening hours.