WHEN it comes to a challenge, flicking a switch to illuminate St Helens’ Christmas lights is really not up there with Steve Prescott’s usual monumental feats.

Nevertheless, the cancer battler – who continues to astound with the endurance missions he conquers for charity – says his job this Saturday is a huge honour.

The father-of-two will be interviewed on stage at Victoria Square before joining the mayor of St Helens, Cllr Geoff Almond, to light up the town and spark a special effects show.

Organisers hope inviting big personalities, such as Steve and boxing champion Martin Murray, will pull in the crowds.

Steve, 38, said: “It is a tremendous honour to be asked to turn on the festive lights.

“It also shows the Steve Prescott Foundation vision of promoting health, well-being and promotion of events in the town has been acknowledged by St Helens Council.

“I would like to thank all those involved for the kind invitation. It is going to be a great occasion.”

Britain’s Got Talent 2012 finalists The Loveable Rogues and The Mend, with local favourites the Lancashire Hotpots, are among the musical acts performing in Victoria Square. Former X Factor finalist Bradley Johnson, of Rainford will be joined by Rainhill singer/songwriter Sophie Morgan and tenor Tom Loughlin.

Rainhill High School dance troupe, Trinity Girls brass band and Broad Oak and Queens Park Primary Schools will perform traditional carols.

The event, supported by Merseytravel, starts at 4pm, and includes stars from Cinderella (Theatre Royal) and A Christmas Carol (The Citadel).

<b>Timetable</b>

4pm – The Lancashire Hotpots
4.30pm – Queens Park Primary School choir
4.40pm – Broad Oak Primary School choir
4.50pm – Citadel pantomime – A Christmas Carol
5pm     – Rainhill High School dance troupe
5.05pm – Trinity Girls brass band
5.15pm – Sophie Morgan (singer)
5.25pm – Theatre Royal pantomime – Cinderella
5.30pm – The Lovable Rogues
5.55pm – Martin Murray interview
6pm     – Father Christmas interview
6.05pm – Tom Loughlin (tenor)
6.10pm – Bradley Johnson
6.20pm – The Mend
6.35pm – Steve Prescott interview
6.40pm – Lights switch-on and special effects show