CHRISTMAS arrived in Brighouse last night when its lights were switched on.

Comedian Bernard Manning got the festive season going when he pressed the button.

Crowds gathered in Thornton Square to see the ceremony.

The comic was accompanied by Brendan Hopkinson, who is playing Dandini in the pantomime Cinderella at the Victoria Theatre, Halifax.

Families watched a laser light show during the ceremony.

The event went ahead after earlier doubts because of a lack of cash.

Local councillor Colin Stout, who helped to rescue the switch-on, said: "It's important it goes ahead."