Despite the terrible weather, local people turned out for the festive celebrations at both event which included entertainment and, of course, the big Christmas Lights Switch On's.

In Dudley there was a Christmas Market, operated by Tudor Markets, live entertainment by local musicians and bands and special free performances of Dick Whittington by the award-winning Fun Time Theatre. Mayor of Dudley Councillor Anne Millward was joined by Amber Sandhu to turn the lights on.

In Brierley Hill street acts The Angels and Code Red entertained while there were performances by Brierley Hill Musical Theatre Company and Bromley Pensnett Primary School. Halesowen Brass Band performed at the indoor Market, where youngsters could also visit Father Christmas in his grotto.

Butcher Gordon Tranter and student nurse Olivia Jane Hanson, who both helped save a woman’s life performing CPR after she collapsed while shopping in the town centre earlier this year, were on stage to press the button and light up the town. They were joined by deputy Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Sue Greenaway. Mayor of Dudley, Cllr Anne Millward said:

"It’s been fantastic to see so many people enjoying themselves and getting into the festive spirit at these events. Thank you to all the entertainers and to everyone who has come out to support them and our local businesses.”