MARLOW'S traditional festive season opener will be fronted by gold medallist Naomi Riches.

The Paralympian was unveiled as the event's star name with Father Christmas.

The London 2012 champion will be the face of Late Night Shopping on December 5, run by Marlow and District Chamber of Trade and Commerce.

It is one of two major Christmas events this year.

The Paralympic rowing champion, from Marlow, told the MFP: "It's going to be fun. It's all about kids and that's what Christmas is about, so it's cool to be part of that.

"I love Marlow and I love my post box being here. The town means a lot to me so why not do something like this?"

Royal Mail painted the High Street post box after her triumph last year.

She said: "Late night shopping is a really nice evening and it's about kids and the excitement of Christmas. This sets it off.

"The first came I came to Marlow to have a look at and go to the rowing club in 2005 I happened to turn up on late night shopping night, by coincidence.

"I hadn't been down the High Street properly before. I was faced with all of these stalls and then it was all festive and beautiful I thought this is really cool.

"I always remember it."

She said: "It's a bit like having a Christmas street party in a way. It feels like that.

"You have the mulled wine, the Rebellion beer, the best dressed stalls and the shops are all open. It's a nice start to the Christmas spirit, I really like it."

She will judge the best dressed stall on the evening. The event will feature a rock choir, the salvation army band and a nativity and live animal procession up the High Street, which will be shut from 3pm to 10pm.

Any charity stalls are welcome to apply and should email jorod@btinternet.com.

The lights will be turned on by actor Tom Chambers at the new 'Switch on and shop' event, run by Marlow Town Council, on November 21.