THREE members of a popular noughties boyband are to turn on the Christmas Lights in Bradford this year.

Last week, The Broadway teased an "unforgettable line-up" for its Festive Launch this Christmas.

Annually, the Bradford city centre shopping centre hosts several free events including the lights switch-on with famous names often attending.

And on Monday, it was announced Duncan James, Simon Webb and Anthony Costa from Blue would be given that task in 2024.

Simon Webb played Aladdin in the Alhambra panto back in 2018Simon Webb played Aladdin in the Alhambra panto back in 2018 Since starting out at the turn of the century, the pop group have released six studio albums - with three hitting UK number one status.

Despite going their own separate ways in 2005, Blue reformed in 2011 and have continued performing ever since.

The free event will take place from 12pm to 6.30pm on Saturday, November 9.

In recent years, the likes of 90s girl band B*Witched, Liberty X, Tinchy Stryder, and Jake Quickenden have all performed on a stage outside the former M&S unit.

Returning to the festive launch this year is global saxophonist Ellie Sax and Youtube’s Rate My Takeaway star Danny Malin plus new acts including Taylor Swift tribute act Lauren G.

Mr Malin will be performing his new Christmas single.

Ian Ward, general manager at The Broadway said: “It’s going to be great to welcome Duncan, Simon and Anthony from Blue to the centre along with the other fantastic acts.

“Ellie Sax always gets the crowd hyped up and Danny Malin will be entertaining the crowd with his new Christmas single.” 

Other exciting acts include children’s entertainment stars Ariel and Elsa, Pokémon and a mini disco.

The cast of Pinocchio, which will be playing at the Alhambra Theatre, will also be in attendance.

Coronation Street’s Chris Gascoyne, who played Peter Barlow, is starring in the pantomime.

Also making a return is the centre’s ‘Broadway Voices’ - a talent show to find the district’s next big choir.

School, community, or church choirs will have the chance to win big and perform live at The Broadway’s Festive Launch - winning a £500 Bradford city gift card in the process.

Mr Ward added: “In a warm-up to Bradford being City of Culture in 2025, we will also welcome performers who will feature in the year-long events programme.

"It’ll give the crowd a taster of what’s to come.”