An Olympic torchbearer will round of her busy year by switching on Braintree’s Christmas lights.

Karate master Kate Malyon will kick off this year’s festive celebrations on Saturday afternoon.

She was nominated for the honour as part of a competition run in The Times where people could choose their star to light up Braintree’s Christmas.

John Miskimmin, of Trottersfield, Braintree, nominated Mrs Malyon because of how much she does for the members of Yong Gi Do Martial Organisation and her fundraising for the charity Parc.

He added that following her Olympic Torch run she visited every Braintree Primary school and took pictures with thousands of children.

He said: “Everyone at the club has her support in karate and their personal lives.”

Mrs Malyon, 46, said: “I don’t really know what to say, what a lovely thing for him to do.

“What a lovely end to a really busy year.”

She paid tribute to everyone who helps at club and said: “Anything for me is for them too.”

The Saturday town centre festivities will begin at 3.30pm with choirs from Alec Hunter Humanities College and Lyons Hall Primary School telling the story of Christmas.

The cast of Snow White the Panto, which will be performed at Bocking Arts Theatre Complex, will also be entertaining the crowds and choosing the winners of the best fancy dress competition.

The lights will be switched on in the High Street at 5pm.