CHRISTMAS is coming to Merry Hill extra early this year, with the intu shopping centre's lights switch on set to take place next week.

The eight-week countdown to the festive season will be kicked off on Friday (October 28) by Reggie and Bollie, the popular duo who came second in last year's The X Factor competition.

Free Radio presenters Jo and Sparky, Naomi Kent and Ed Knell will get the party started at 12noon from the main stage near River Island.

Before the big switch on at 6pm, there will also be performances from Britain’s Got Talent finalists Jack Pack and The X Factor 2016 stars Freddy Parker and Christian Burrows.

The event is free.