The festive season officially arrived in Richmond last week (21 November) after the Christmas Light Switch On event from BeRichmond saw crowds gather on George Street.

On the cold Thursday evening, the high street closed at around 4pm so that residents could make their way to the Riverside Radio stage to enjoy the festivities ahead of the light switch-on.

People on George Street, Richmond on 21 November ahead of the Christmas light switch-on event (credit: Cesar Medina).

Kicking things off were the Rock Choir and children from Skylarks Charity who performed Christmas carols for residents, signing favourites like Twelve Days of Christmas and Last Christmas.

People gathered for the Christmas tree and street to be lit up (credit: Cesar Medina).

Actors from Richmond Theatre in the upcoming production Beauty and the Beast also sang tunes, with crowds enjoying the Christmas covers from Cherece Richards playing The Enchantress.

Crowds dispersing after the light switch-on (credit: Cesar Medina).

Ahead of turning the lights on, Richmond upon Thames Mayor Councillor Richard Pyne told those in attendance: "It is the combination of all of you that have made this a really fabulous event so please support your local businesses and traders."

Christmas lights can now be seen switched on during the evenings on George Street (credit: Cesar Medina).

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