EIGHTIES pop icon Martin Kemp will switch on Metrocentre’s Christmas lights later this month, as part of a three-day Winter Weekender to mark the shopping mall’s 40th year.
The festive fun will begin at 3pm on Friday November 13, as the star-studded weekend gets underway, with the Thomas Nicholas Band, the alternative rock and pop punk group fronted by actor and musician Thomas Nicholas – best known for his role as Kevin Myers in the American Pie film series.
Supporting the band on stage in Exhibition Square will be the North East’s very own Mitch Laddie and Matt Fairley, with signings to follow in the HMV store in Lower Blue Mall.
Next day, Saturday 14, will feature stars of a different kind with a Christmas Parade from 11am. This is set to feature some of the season’s most iconic faces from movie characters to fairytale favourites and pop-culture royalty – and of course, Santa himself.
After the parade, the characters will be meeting young visitors for photos as they wander around the mall – and youngsters can also enjoy a huge 3m x 5m snowball pit in Town Square.
Sunday will feature more magic for youngsters with special appearances from famous animated characters and big screen characters, ahead of the main event from 3pm.
BBC Radio Newcastle’s Anna Foster will host the traditional Christmas lights switch on, joined by the former Spandau Ballet star who will also play a live DJ set of retro and seasonal hits.
It’s all part of a busy festive season at Metrocentre, which will include Black Friday savings throughout the mall, along with the keenly awaited openings of the all-new Bershka and Lefties stores, with dates and details set to be announced soon.
For those able to spare a few pounds to help good causes, there will be a giant toy donation box in Exhibition Square from November 16 November through to December 17 or anyone wishing to support Cash for Kids Mission Christmas appeal – simply buy and drop-off a new, unwrapped gift and the Cash for Kids team will make sure it goes to a good home.
The Marie Curie Gift Wrapping Station will also be back in Upper Town Square from December 9-24, helping add the all-important finishing touches to gifts in exchange for donations to support their nursing and hospice care services.
More details on all events, deals and offers will be available online at www.themetrocentre.co.uk
