CELEBRITY chef Tom Kerridge said he felt like he "had won the FA Cup" as he clambered aboard an open top bus to switch on Marlow's Christmas lights in front of a crowd of thousands this evening.

The adopted Marlovian started the countdown alongside Mayor Suzanne Brown before operating the plunger to illuminate the town's light show.

Crowds took over as the High Street was closed to traffic for Marlow Town Council's event, which is one of two annual festive events for the town alongside Marlow Chamber of Commerce's Late Night Shopping on December 4. 

Tom told the BFP: "We have been here for 10 years and I massively consider Marlow my hometown. Now I'm here I couldn't imagine living anywhere else.

"There's such a wonderful community spirit and a really special place to be a part of.

"I'm very proud, and it's nights like tonight that show how wonderful it is. I really fell in love with this town."

Shops opened late for the special event, with many serving drinks and treats for festive shoppers looking to make a start on their Christmas gift lists.

And carol singers from the Next Stage choir out on quite a show entertaining crowds with some up tempo versions of classic Christmas songs.