BOLTON will be dreaming of a Whites Christmas as Big Sam Allardyce has been signed up to switch on the town's Christmas lights.
The Wanderers manager is the latest in a line of big name stars including Peter Kay, Vernon Kay and Atomic Kitten who have performed the prestigious role.
Last year 15,000 people turned out to join in the fun and organisers are confident this year's line-up will be another crowd-puller.
The big switch on will be on Thursday, November 25.
Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Barbara Ronson, said, after featuring stars from the world of comedy, TV and pop music, it was time to recognise a local sporting hero.
She said: "We have had some really big names supporting our festive celebrations in the past and this year will be no exception.
"Big Sam has really helped put Bolton on the national map so we thought it would be a great idea to give him the top honour this year."
The council has organised two hours of free family fun to celebrate the switch-on of the lights in Victoria Square from 5pm and a parade of colourful Christmas characters and mascots will weave its way through the town centre.
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