WESTLIFE star Brian McFadden was guest of honour as Uxbridge celebrated its annual Christmas switch-on yesterday.

A performance by McFadden, who left the boy band in 2004, was the climax to the big switch-on festivities, including a parade through the town and carol singers in The Piazza.

After illuminating the town’s streets and Christmas tree, the singer took to the stage at the intu Uxbridge shopping centre, with songs including number one single Real to Me.

“Don’t you feel like Christmas is always coming earlier and earlier?” he asked the crowd. “It feels like Halloween was only yesterday!”

The parade was fronted by an eco-friendly Santa, who decided to leave his reindeer at home and ride his bike to pull a sleigh carrying his elves, Mayor George Cooper and his wife Judith.

There were also stilt-walking ice creatures, live bells and some more of Santa’s helpers who were happy to stop and take ‘elfies’ with the crowd.

“It’s not about spending money, its about love and spending time with each other," said Coun Cooper.

“The parade was absolutely fantastic. Christmas has officially arrived in Hillingdon.”

Children from Laurel Lane Primary Schools choir performed carols on the transformed flower stall stage outside the train station, and made lanterns to add some Christmas sparkle.

“The carollers were wonderful. Laurel Lane school were first rate,” the mayor added.

John-Paul Venn, 26, of Hayes, said: “It’s still quite early, but it is making me a bit more in the Christmas spirit and my kids loved the parade.

“Now I just have to worry about how much money I’m gonna have to spend!”

See our video report here.