Oxford Street Christmas lights: Kylie Minogue follows in footsteps of Cheryl Fernandez-Versini to illuminate London

Kylie Minogue will get over the disappointment of her native Australia's loss to New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final by spreading some festive joy in London by switching on the famous Oxford Street Christmas lights.

The singer was at Twickenham on Saturday to watch as the Wallabies lost 34-17 to New Zealand and will join stars from the X-Factor and Matilda the Musical to officially start the countdown to Christmas. She follows in the footsteps of X-Factor judge Cheryl Fernandez-Versini whose responsibility it was last year to illuminate one of the world's most famous shopping district.

As well as the petite popstar there will also be appearances by Foxes, X Factor's Fleur East and the show's winner Ben Haenow as well as mini-performance by actors starring in Matilda. The event will be hosted by Capital Radio duo Dave Berry and Lisa Snowdon.

The event means West Oxford Street will be closed to traffic between 2pm and 6.30pm but shoppers could make an early start to buying their Christmas presents as most shops will be putting on special discount offers.