'Walking in the Air' star hosts Christmas party

October 12, 2010

Aled Jones, the schoolboy sensation behind one of the most famous festive hits ever, is all grown up – and will be switching on the Christmas lights and hosting a Christmas party in Basildon this year.

Jones, who now hosts the BBC TV programme Songs of Praise and is a Radio 2 presenter, will be joined at the festive flurry of events by Eurovision star Josh Dubovie.

Despite coming last in the contest, the rising musical star has gone on to appear in shows at Westcliff’s Cliffs Pavilion and will appear in Aladdin at Grays Civic Hall early next year.

Alongside the pantomime, there will also be special appearances from stars of another production of Aladdin, being staged at Basildon’s Towngate Theatre later this year and local arts acts during the event, at Basildon’s Eastgate Centre, on Thursday November, 18.

Kevin Blake, Basildon councillor responsible for arts and leisure, said, “It’s going to be the biggest Christmas party ever.

“Everybody remembers Aled Jones and the Snowman song. It’s going to be great. As for Josh Dubovie, he is sure to get the crowd going. It will be fun, entertaining and everyone will help to make the Christmas countdown the biggest ever,” he added.

The Christmas lights will be switched on at 3pm, followed by a firework display.