Treyc Cohen and Bernie Clifton switch on Telford lights

Hundreds of people braved the first big chill of winter to see X Factor finalist Treyc Cohen and stars from the Oakengates pantomime perform as a Shropshire shopping centre launched its Christmas celebrations.

The singer from Tamworth and the cast of Jack and the Beanstalk, including Bernie Clifton, were the star turns as Telford Shopping Centre switched on its Christmas lights last night and opened its Santa's grotto.

Treyc said she was overwhelmed by the reaction of the Telford crowd as she was welcomed on stage in one of the centre's car parks.

She was greeted with loud applause, cheers and shouts of "I love Treyc" and she sang four popular songs in freezing temperatures, including Car Wash and The Zutons's Valerie.

And, in an exclusive interview with the Shropshire Star, she admitted being very nervous about performing for the county crowd, despite singing in front of millions on X Factor.

"I am always nervous. Even though the response has been amazing since I left I never know quite what the reaction is going to be," she added.

And Treyc, 27, is used to tough critics after facing down reality show judges.

But she said she enjoyed every minute of X Factor and was extremely grateful she had been given such an "amazing platform" to launch a career and was really looking forward to returning for finals night.

After singing and performing the official switch-on at 6pm she made time to talk to fans in New Row.

Bernie Clifton, famous for his yellow ostrich, also said he was delighted to have been part of the event.

"It's great, really wonderful to be here," he said.

Stars of last night's show included Telford Tigers and Lawley Primary School.

By Tracey O'Sullivan