Why it is fitting that Mikey Lewis will turn on Christmas Lights in Hull

Mikey Lewis is turning on the Christmas Lights on Thursday night and it will be a happy sight for a lot of young people especially. One much-loved figure who wears red and white and brings excitement - Father Christmas - will be with another at what should be a merry, important and special time of year.

As a locally-raised public figure who became Super League Man of Steel, the top individual accolade at the top level of his sport rugby league, the Hull Kingston Rovers half-back is an example of someone who walked these local streets as a part of the community and has become a star in his field, which should provide inspiration to many. And, on the flip side, it is nice for the sport of rugby league that one of its stars is in this role, leading these celebrations and festivities.

And the back story that Lewis has, of how it can be possible to overcome rejection and adversity - and get to the top the hard way, after biding time and having stints lower down - are life lessons, making him a role model in many aspects. He has natural ability but hard work has taken his game to new levels and that is also a positive example.

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Being in your home city and seeing your own homegrown England star should be a moment of pride and enjoyment at an eagerly-anticipated time of year for so many children and adults.

Lewis will lead the celebrations on Thursday in Queen Victoria Square, when a 50ft-tall Norwegian spruce tree will be lit up. Aside from his presence, there is entertainment that begins at 5.30pm before the Christmas lights are due to be switched on at 6.45pm by him, the Lord Mayor of Hull and Father Christmas.

The Lord Mayor, Councillor Mark Collinson, said: “To have a Hull lad involved who is recognised across the country as the best in his profession is a great thing. He’s helped Rovers achieve fantastic things over the past few years. It will be an honour for me to be involved with him in such a prestigious occasion, as we switch on the lights to kick off Christmas in our city.”

Live performers will also be at the event, which will be presented on the balcony of Hull City Hall by BBC Radio Humberside presenters Kofi Smiles and Carla Greene plus host DJ Darren Lethem. Weather permitting, there will also be a firework display. And, following this event of Lewis turning on the lights, locals can also look forward to Christmas markets being held in the city centre every weekend from 23 November until 21 December. A special occasion on Thursday will be followed by a special time in the city - and Lewis is a fitting ambassador.

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