Call the Midwife star Laura Main will switch on Edinburgh's Christmas lights this year.

The Light Night event will take place on November 19 and will mark the start of the Edinburgh's Christmas celebrations, which run until January 6.

Radio DJ Arlene Stuart will host the event, with choirs, dance groups and the city's Lord Provost Frank Ross also appearing on stage.

There are expected to be around 20,000 spectators.

Main, who also stars in Shrek the Musical, will be joined on stage by her co-star Steffan Harri.

The Aberdeen-born actress said: "What an honour it is to be turning on Edinburgh's iconic Christmas lights. I am thrilled to be spending the festive season back in Scotland along with another resident, Shrek.

"We'll be giving you a sneak peek of our show Shrek the Musical, ahead of its run at the Edinburgh Playhouse in December, where I'll be donning the green dress as Princess Fiona.

"Light Night is a wonderful way to kick off the Christmas season and I can't wait to see you all there."

Edinburgh lord provost Frank Ross said: "On stage and on screen, and even on the Strictly dance floor, Laura Main is one of Scotland's most admired actresses.

"I am delighted she will return to Edinburgh where she has performed during the Fringe to help us start our winter celebrations."