LEGENDARY comic Ken Dodd will be honoured in Leigh on Monday when he switches on the town's Christmas lights.

Leigh's favourite Christmas visitor will light up the town for the fourth successive year, and this time pure Scouser Doddy will be presented with a framed certificate declaring him a honorary citizen of Leigh.

Throughout the day a town crier will tell the tale about the proclamation signed by Leigh MP Andy Burnham, Wigan Council Leader Lord Peter Smith and town centre champion Cllr Brian Jarvis.

Cllr Jarvis, who will bestow the honour on Doddy on Monday night, said: "I do not think the people of Leigh really appreciate what Ken does for Leigh. He is in one of the top stars in this country. He really does love coming to Leigh."

Cllr Jarvis said councillors from other towns often quizzed him about how Leigh manages to get Doddy to switch on the lights.

He said: "He's a personal friend and a friend to Leigh. We'll show our gratitude by making him an honorary 'Leyther'. We're presenting him with the coat of arms."

Fun and activities begin at 4pm in the Civic Square. A brass band and carol singers will raise the atmosphere as people get an early dose of Christmas cheer. Youngsters will be able to have their faces painted, take a spin on rides and enjoy roadshow entertainment and dance.

Extra funding has been provided for the town's illuminations, which will be spent on maintenance and putting the existing lights up.

This year Christmas shopping will be extra fun with the opening of the Spinning Gate shopping centre's new extension.

Late night trading starts next Thursday with selected stores opening until 8 pm. To celebrate there will be entertainment, giveaways and free parking from 6pm in all car parks.

Sunday trading begins on December 2 with stores opening from 10 am to 4 pm. Car parking is free all day and many stores are open, including Argos, Wilkinsons and Woolworths.

On Thursday, December 20, there will be a special town centre firework display.