A former England women's footballer and local hero is set to lead the festive countdown in Skipton this year when she turns on the town's Christmas lights.
Proud Skiptonian Jean Elliot - who represented England in the 1971 Women's World Cup - will be joined on stage by Santa and the team from Your Skipton Radio to light up the town and officially start the Christmas season.
The lights switch on will be the culmination of a busy day in town on Sunday 30th November, kicking off with the Great Skipton Santa Fun Run at 11am ahead of a full day of festive entertainment, market stalls, live music and family activities.
Your Skipton Radio will once again be hosting the main stage on Skipton's High Street.
Then at 5pm, Jean will step up to illuminate Skipton in all its seasonal sparkle.
Jean, who was born and raised in Skipton and still calls the town home, served in the RAF before representing England in the 1971 Women’s World Cup.
Speaking ahead of the event, she said:
“It’s such an honour to kick off the festive season here in my hometown. Skipton has always been in my heart.
"My time in the RAF and my football career shaped my life, and representing England in the 1971 Women’s World Cup was an unforgettable experience. Seeing the Lionesses inspire a new generation is incredible – and I can’t wait to share this special moment with Skipton.”

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