Pixie flies in to help light up Leeds » Local Government » 24dash.com

X Factor winner turned chart-topper Alexandra Burke has pulled out of the Leeds Christmas lights switch-on.

She will be replaced for Thursday's ceremony by fellow pop star Pixie Lott.

The 18-year-old, who claimed two awards in the prestigious MTV Europe Music Awards last week, has joined the bill which includes a host of famous names for the big lights switch-on in Leeds which takes place on Victoria Gardens from 7pm.

Pixie (Victoria Lott) will be making her second appearance of the year in Leeds, having performed at Party in the Park at Temple Newsam in July. Pixie has enjoyed a major breakthrough year in 2009, having two UK number one singles and her debut album “Turn It Up” selling over 70,000 copies since it was released in September.

Her success was recognised in Berlin last week, where Pixie was named Best Push Artist and Best UK/Irish Act in the MTV Europe Music Awards.

Leeds City Council Executive Member for Leisure Councillor John Procter said: “We are absolutely delighted to have Pixie Lott joining us for this year’s Christmas lights switch-on in Leeds. Pixie put on a great performance at Party in the Park in the summer. We're sorry Alexandra Burke won't be joining us but Pixie together with the rest of the fantastic line-up will make for a great show for everyone to enjoy.”

As well as Pixie Lott, the Leeds Lights switch-on organised by Leeds City Council and Real Radio in association with the Yorkshire Evening Post will feature appearances by Girls Can’t Catch, Mini Viva, Lorraine Kelly, Leeds United stars, England and Australia rugby league stars, Ronnie the Rhino with the Super League trophy and, of course, Santa and friends.

Managing Director of Real Radio Yorkshire Steve South said: “Adding the award-winning Pixie Lott to the evening, fresh from her success at the MTV Europe Music Awards, is fantastic news. We are really disappointed that Alexandra Burke will not be able to attend due to contractual issues, but it is going to be a fantastic and unmissable event which Real Radio are proud to be a part of, and best of all, it’s free.”

Anyone requiring further details about the switch-on can contact Leeds City Council’s Events team on 0113 395 0891 or visit www.leeds.gov.uk