AN EX-EASTENDERS star will switch on Christmas tree lights at a late night shopping event.

Dean Gaffney will do the countdown and light up the tree during the annual St Helena Hospice Light up a Life service at St James’ Church, Brightlingsea.

The service takes place between 7pm and 7.30pm during the wider festive event on December 7.

Mr Gaffney is playing Buttons in the Clacton Princes Theatre panto this year and will join Father Christmas on sleigh ride journey from Hurst Green to his grotto in Marshes Yard.