BANBURY’s residents will be treated to some home-grown talent at this year’s Christmas lights switch-on.

Singer Rosie Samaras, 12, will perform two songs after winning a ten-minute slot at the event.

Rosie, pictured right, was one of 21 budding singers who took part in a “step-up-to-the-mic contest” launched at Party in the Park in the summer.

A fortnight ago she battled it out alongside five other finalists at a sing-off in front of judges at Banbury’s Town Hall.

She plans to perform Run, by Leona Lewis, and Hallelujah, by Alexandra Burke, when she takes to the stage at 2.45pm on Sunday, November 29.

Rosie, of Broome Way, Banbury, said: “I have been singing since I was really little.

“I have always liked to perform front of my mum, but only started having singing lessons when I was ten.”

The Banbury School pupil signed up for the contest after spotting a flyer about the Radio Horton summer event in People’s Park.

It wasn’t until weeks later she found out she had reached the finals.

Mum Heidi said: “I’m so proud of her we could burst. She loves it so much. So watch this space.”

Next for Rosie is hopefully an audition for television show Britain’s Got Talent.

Ann Sewell, events and projects officer for Banbury Town Council, said: “When originally undertaking this event in the People’s Park this summer, we did not expect to see such superb talent. So, six artists were called back to perform again.

“It was a tough decision. Rosie will certainly show the public of Banbury there truly is some excellent talent among them. Her voice certainly belies her young age.”

Rosie will have some pretty good company on the stage. Other acts signed up include Blazin’ Squad, Aquablakk, and local bands Harlequinn and Outraze.

Escapologist and juggler Merlin Cadogan, a semi-finalist on Britain’s Got Talent will also take to the stage.

Elsewhere on the day, which kicks off at noon, will be a host of stalls, a Father Christmas and a fair.

The lights will be switched on at 6pm followed by a fireworks finale.