THEY may have helped light up the lives of others but now they have the chance to light up Southampton.

Over the years the lights have been switched on by soap stars, football stars, Olympic heroes and even a world champion boxer.

Today the Daily Echo and Go!Southampton – the new organisation set up to promote the city centre – are launching a search for a local hero to switch on Southampton’s Christmas lights.

Do you know someone who deserves this honour? Is there someone in your community that goes over and above the call of duty? Is there someone who is always helping others? Perhaps someone you know has overcome a life-changing challenge.

The person chosen will help city mayor Cllr Les Harris press the button to bring the city’s illuminations to life at a special ceremony to be held at the Bargate on November 11.

Heidi Isa, marketing and events Director for GO! Southampton said: “Christmas is the perfect time to say thank you to someone who has done something really special, and with this competition, the whole of Southampton will be able to share in thanking one unique individual.

“The switching on of the lights in Southampton should be a really proud moment for everyone in the city.”

Wave 105 DJ Mark Collins will be at the switch-on event to warm up the crowd and afterwards Santa will invite children to join him at the large Advent calendar to hand out small treats to all.

GO! Southampton Business Improvement District (BID) is starting by adding lots of new Christmas lights and decorations to those already organised by the council, giving a more festive feel to East Street, Bedford Place and London Road.

If you’re looking for photo opportunities then head to the Cultural Quarter where you’ll find two giant baubles, big enough to walk through.

One will be located at the Guildhall entrance to East Park and the other in front of the SeaCity Museum and there’s also the Christmas tree in Guildhall Square.

Added to that there will be the traditional Christmas market, the Mayflower Theatre’s pantomime and the Esplanade ice rink and Alpine-style bar.

To nominate your hero email info@gosouthampton.co.uk (putting ‘Local Hero’ in the message field) and including the following details:

l The name of the person nominated

l The reason why you think this person should be nominated

l Your telephone number and postcode

The deadline for submissions is November 3 and the nominator of the winning nominee will be notified by Monday November 6. Availability of the nominee to attend the switch-on will need to be confirmed on the same day.

CHRISTMAS DIARY DATES:

November 11-January 2: Ice rink and Alpine style bar on the Esplanade

November 16: Marlands Christmas Lights switch-on

November 24: Black Friday – Westquay shops will remain open to 10pm

December 14-15: Late night shopping Westquay

December 18-22: Late night shopping Westquay

December 15-January 7 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Mayflower Theatre