BIG Brother star Brian Belo lit up more than just Basildon when he flicked the switch to turn on the town's Christmas lights.

The local lad with the heart of gold brightened the evening for hundreds of adoring fans as he led the festive ceremony to illuminate the town's seasonal decorations last night.

Freezing temperatures didn't stop several hundred spectators from packing into the town centre to catch a glimpse of 20-year-old Brian, who won the nation's hearts after being crowned Big Brother 8 winner in September.

Security guards had to hold back excited young fans as the reality TV star, of Ampers End, Basildon, took to a specially-erected stage to push a giant plunger to turn on the lights.

Brian, who says he wants a PlayStation 3 console for Christmas, told the Echo: "I can't put into words how chuffed I am to be asked to come here tonight.

"Last year I was watching as Chantelle did it and now it's me.

"It goes to show how much your life can change in a year.

"I wonder what my life will be like this time next year. Still good, I hope!"

Brian has made headlines since leaving the Big Brother house, particuarly for his romance with fellow BB contestant Amanda Marchant, who took part with her twin sister, Sam.

He was joined on stage by Josie Warr, 15, and Stuart Morrison, 13 - both of whom won a competition in the Echo to meet their hero.

Josie, who attends Barstable School, said: "Brian was so nice. He chatted with me and he even showed me pictures on his phone of Amanda and Sam.

"I was a huge fan of his before tonight, so getting to meeting him has been great." Stuart, of Thistledown, Basildon, added: "He is a really nice person and deserves his success."

The star's ten-year-old nephew, Tye, also appeared on stage, as did performers from the forthcoming Towngate Theatre pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Other entertainment in-cluded stiltwalkers, animated TV characters in costume, live pop music, and carols performed by the Basildon Choral Society.