IT'S beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Dudley now the town's festive lights have been switched on.

Hundreds of people braved the cold to see TV star Alison Hammond light up the town on Saturday, alongside the Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Dave Tyler.

The popular Brummie, who is the showbiz reporter for ITV’s This Morning, warmed up the crowd with a sing-song and started a Mexican wave before she pressed the big red button at 5pm.

Things didn't quite go to plan as there was a slight delay between the button being pressed and the lights coming on - leading cllr Tyler to joke: "I don't know if we've paid the bill or not!"

But when the town was finally illuminated, there was a big cheer from the crowd.

The switch on followed a day of festive fun, organised by Dudley Council event and Tudor Markets, which runs and manages the market in the town.

Visitors enjoyed live music, facepainting, children's rides, a Christmas market and seasonal refreshments.