Lighting the city in September is to be a major arts and production company.

Lancashire Encounter Festival has awarded the contract for the procession of light to the Big Difference Company.

The firm have pedigree producing light shows for the re-interment of King Richard III in Leicester, the 2012 London Paralympic Games and the annual Leicester Comedy Festival.

A procession of light is to take place on Saturday 24 September through the city centre.

Cabinet member for arts and culture councillor Peter Kelly said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for Preston to welcome groups from across Lancashire to celebrate creativity from around the region. I cannot wait to see the end result.”

Related: Lancashire Encounter festival returns to become biennial fixture

The Big Difference Company say they want to take inspiration from the steampunk movement in the parade to celebrate Lancashire’s industrial heritage.

CEO of Big Difference Company Geoff Rowe said: “We’re really excited to be working with the team in Preston and the wider Lancashire community. Building on the great enthusiasm and making that went into the Guild processions, we are keen to create a unique procession of Light for Lancashire.”

How you can be involved in the procession of light

The city council is looking for community groups and businesses to get involved in the parade.

To take part in the procession is £40 for community groups and £150 for firms.

You can get involved by expressing an interest on the city council website.

When is Lancashire Encounter on?

It takes place from Friday 23 September to Sunday 25 September in Preston city centre with events throughout the weekend, with the Flag Market playing host to the majority of events although the red canopies are returning.

Will you be going to the procession of light? What do you think of the Big Difference Company? Let us know in the comments below