Hundreds of people turned out to see the Christmas lights switched on in Dudley and Brierley Hill at the weekend.

In Dudley, the lights were switched on by the Mayor of Dudley and the BBC’s Kath Stanczyszyn.

In Brierley Hill, the borough’s own European welterweight boxing champ, Kirstie Bavington ensured it was a knockout event when she joined Father Christmas to press the button and illuminate Brierley Hill.

Families at both events were able to enjoy free panto performances of Sleeping Beauty, funded by Dudley Business First.

Black Country Radio broadcast live from Dudley, while in Brierley Hill there was live entertainment and funfair rides. Councillor Sue Greenaway, the Mayor of Dudley, said:

“It was great to see people turnout to these events – they give a real boost to businesses and bring a bit of festive cheer to the town centres.

“With the lights on in most of our borough towns now, it’s a sign the big day is just around the corner and I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and a very happy New Year.”

The events coincided with Small Business Saturday, a national campaign to encourage people to shop local. Free car parking was available for two hours on Dudley Council-owned car parks.