Marlow’s mayor has praised this year’s “controversial choice” for the town’s Christmas lights switch-on, saying comedian Russell Brand did the town “proud”.

Thousands of people packed into the High Street last Thursday (November 23) to see the star push the plunger down with mayor Jocelyn Towns to turn on the lights and kick-off the festive season.

He spoke of his love for the town and the community, saying he felt he had “come home” every time he crossed the bridge into Marlow.

He said: “I know it was a controversial decision but I live here and I love it here.

“I love the people of this town, and this community.”

Cllr Towns said: “Russell did us proud.

“It was lovely to see him and his family enjoying such a great welcome from the people of Marlow, and his words about Marlow were heartwarming as well as very funny.

“We’re thrilled that he enjoys being part of this great community.”

Families flocked to the town centre for the popular annual event to enjoy fake snow, carol singing, Christmas displays and the switch-on ceremony from the top of a double decker bus outside the Chequers pub.