SNOOKER star John Parrott will cover York with colour on Thursday when he presses the button at the big Christmas lights switch-on.

Former world champion John follows the snooker tradition at the switch-on after Ronnie "The Rocket" O'Sullivan did the honours last year.

Organiser Mark Brayshaw said: "It is excellent to have a character like John on board."

Mr Brayshaw also thanked North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service for offering to provide 1,000 gallons of water.

The stage the big switch-on show will use has tanks attached to each side so water can be added to weigh it down and keep it in place.

York fire brigade will send along a fire engine to provide the water.

Mr Brayshaw said: "We were wondering how we would get 1,000 gallons into Duncombe Place but we asked the fire service and they said 'yes' straight away. A big thank-you to them."

Divisional Officer Graham Buckle said the fire engine would be on standby and could be called to a job if needed.

He added: "The Christmas lights are one of the major features of York's year. We were more than happy to play our small part."

Updated: 10:49 Wednesday, November 26, 2003