Helen Flanagan, the Coronation actress who had been due to switch on Banbury’s Christmas lights has pulled out.

Helen, who plays minx Rosie Webster in the show, had to cancel due to filming commitments.

Instead, her colleague, and arch enemy on the soap opera Jennie McAlpine, who plays Fiz, has stepped in to press the all-important switch to light up the town.

This year’s Christmas lights event takes place on Sunday, November 28, amid a host of musical entertainment.

Banbury Town councillor Tina Wren, chairman of the switch on committee, said: “Regrettably Helen has been called away by Granada Television which is a great shame.

“However we are pleased to have obtained a wonderful replacement for switching on the towns lights, and are looking forward to a wonderful event.”

Taking to the stage from 2pm, in Bridge Street, will be quartet the Great British Barbershop Boys, The Soldiers, a Michael Jackson tribute act and performances by local bands the Screamin’ Abdabs and The Caper.

There will also be a children’s funfair, appearance by Father Christmas and a firework finale.

The event is funded by Banbury Town Council and businesses, and supported by the Banbury Cake.