A WEE COUNTY former X-Factor star insists it will be extra special to perform in front of a local audience this Sunday at Stirling’s Christmas lights switch on.

Alix Muir, 22, who reached the bootcamp stage of the hit TV show in 2015, hails from Clackmannanshire and works in Stirling for Prudential as an HR advisor.

She also regularly showcases her stunning vocal skills in venues across the local area and was among the headliners at the city’s switch on celebrations two years ago.

Alix said: “I am really looking forward to performing again. In 2017, there was a brilliant atmosphere, the crowd were fantastic and it was special seeing all the youngsters excited.

“I’m from the Tullibody area in Clackmannanshire so it’s nice that my family can come along. My boyfriend is from Bannockburn and I sing in a lot the pubs in the area so I know Stirling really well.

“Sometimes I feel more nervous singing to people I know rather than people I don’t know, but it’ll be great to perform in front of a big crowd, especially at this time of year when everyone is getting excited for Christmas.”

The talented singer songwriter, who has starred in competitions like Open Mic UK and Stars of The Future, will crank up the festive feel-good factor when she takes to the stage ahead of the big switch on at 5.10pm.

She said: “I’ll play a couple of Christmas tunes, so the Mariah Carey number will be there, along with a couple of nice upbeat chart ones. There may be a few ballads in there but I will be aiming to get the crowd going for lights being switched on.

“The best thing about performing at these events is seeing the faces of the young kids and the adults getting really excited. There is so much going on during the day in Stirling with the Santa parade and the reindeer so it’s a really magical day for families.”

For the moment, Alix is content to continue hitting the right notes at a range of events rather than pursuing TV singing stardom again on shows X-Factor.

She said: “Getting to bootcamp on X-Factor was an amazing achievement and something to be really proud of. Although I auditioned for it a couple more times, I came to the conclusion that it’s not really the be all and end all. There is much more I can do.

“I love doing weddings and charity events so the aim is to continue getting involved in the charity events and local venues. It’s something I really enjoy doing so it’s not really a job for me, and I will continue doing it and see where it takes me.

“And performing to a big crowd at the switch on will help get my name out there and for people to hear the type of music I sing.”

Along with Alix, family favourites Funbox, the amazing Tolbooth Young Performers and the talented musicians from Stirling High School will get the crowd singing and dancing from the main stage.

BBC announcer Jennie Cook will also keep everyone entertained with festive fun and frolics. Elsewhere, the Big Noise Orchestra will light up the Stirling Arcade, and some of the best local up-and-coming bands will showcase their musical talent at a stage on Friars Street, outside Europa Music.

Earlier in the day, the traditional Santa procession – supported by Thistles Shopping Centre - will get the FREE event underway, setting off from the Albert Halls at 2pm.

The on stage entertainment will get underway at 3pm, with the Stirling High School and Tolbooth Young Performers. At 3.45pm it’s Funbox, followed by Alix Muir until the big switch on at 5pm

For more info on Stirling's Christmas lights switch on, which will take place on Sunday, head to: http://www.stirlingwinterfestival.com/christmas-light-switch-on/