Former X Factor finalists One Direction are alleged to have turned down Christmas lights switch-on offers due to security fears.

According to The Sun newspaper, it was feared that so many fans would turn up for a switch-on event that the costs of providing security for the group would be too high.

A show source allegedly told the newspaper: “Every city wants One Direction to turn on their Christmas lights.

“It’s a family-orientated occasion so the boy band fit the bill perfectly.

“But due to the sheer volume of fans who make their way to these events, security costs would be sky high.”