A HOLLYWOOD legend has agreed to switch on the Christmas lights in a North-East city.
Oscar winner Mickey Rooney, who is to make his panto debut at Sunderland's Empire Theatre this year, is to switch on the city's Christmas lights on November 22.
The veteran actor, starring as Baron Hardup in Cinderella from December 8, will be joined by his wife Jan and the city's mayor Coun Les Scott to throw the switch at the civic centre.
Councillor Mel Speding, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: "To have such a legendary star switch on Sunderland's Christmas Illuminations is a great honour for the city.
"We are looking forward to welcoming Mickey and Jan and their appearance in Cinderella will be the perfect finale to a year of celebrations for Sunderland Empire's Centenary".
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