An Olympic champion who lives near Knutsford is set to dazzle with a Christmas lights switch-on.

Dame Laura Kenny, Britain's most successful female Olympian, will officially kickstart the festive season in Altrincham on November 23.

The renowned cyclist, who has an impressive five Olympic gold medals and one silver to her name, will take to the stage on Regent Road to illuminate the town.

The Christmas lights event will be hosted by Happy Radio presenters Darren Proctor and Chelsea Norris, and promises to be a festive afternoon filled with entertainment and community choirs.

This year, the celebration is putting a new focus on sustainability and sport.

Local gyms and fitness studios, along with players from Altrincham Football Club and Manchester Storm, will be powering part of the stage lighting through pedal power.

Each will have a 20-minute slot to generate power, promoting fitness and sustainability.

This aligns with the theme of this year’s switch-on, which reflects Altrincham’s commitment to active travel and green initiatives.

There will be performances from Little Belters, The Music Place Choir, Amanda Jane Heywood, Imogen-Paige, and the debut of the Randall’s Jewellers Band featuring Cllr Michael Welton, Martin Duff, and Sonia Stanley.

Dame Laura Kenny, who was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2022 and lives near Knutsford, has become a beloved figure both on and off the track.

The Olympic champion will take to the stage to illuminate the town (Image: Supplied) She has become a prominent figure in sports commentary, notably at events such as the Paris 2024 Olympics, and has co-authored a book, The Inside Track, with her husband, Sir Jason Kenny, Britain's most decorated Olympian.

Mandy White, Altrincham BID director, said: "We’re proud to bring the community together for an event.

"This year’s theme celebrates Altrincham’s commitment to active travel and sustainability, as well as sporting achievements, all of which make Dame Laura Kenny the perfect guest to lead us into Christmas.

"We would like to thank all the event sponsors for their support including Altrincham Football Club, Assura, Capstone Financial, Con Club, Hill & Co, Lund Bennett Law, Rhode Island Coffee, SPORTFIVE, Howden Insurance and XL Business Finance.

"It’s great to be able to bring this event to Altrincham reflecting back on a summer of sport including the Paris Olympics."

The event will take place on November 23 from 3pm to 6pm, with the switch-on stage on Regent Road and the audience on George Street.