The Christmas community event, Kew Sparkle will be held on Friday 1 December between 5pm – 8pm this year, in the heart of Kew Village.

Now in its 15th year, the Kew Sparkle team of five really do make the village sparkle every year!

The fabulous Christmas lights twinkle in the trees and massive crowds come together to enjoy the wonderful street stalls offering a plethora of Christmas gift ideas, as well as a range of sumptuous street food.

Children from local schools set the scene for Christmas with renditions of their favourite carols on the main stage, with further musical entertainment provided by the effervescent RockChoir and the Thames TV Big Band.

Younger visitors are enchanted by the animals from Basil's Farm. Santa's grotto is a highlight for many, not to mention the thrill of the funfair rides and street entertainers who will glide through the crowds.

The Kew village Christmas lights are a spectacle and bring a special warmth to the community for the month of December until Twelfth Night.

Some of the festivities on the night. (Photo Credit: Kew Sparkle).

A small grant from Richmond Council, supplemented by many generous donations from local businesses and residents makes this all possible.

The fundraising efforts are coordinated by a small group of volunteers including Maxine Cody who said: "A lot of people in the community are really passionate about making sure the village is lit up because they get such enjoyment from it."

She added: "It's fabulous when these lights are switched on and we get messages from many Kew residents saying how amazing they are.

"It's great to watch the community come together and their generosity is amazing. It's all about keeping the community alive and adding a bit of sparkle to it."

This year's annual fundraising dinner will be held on Wednesday 8th November at The Kew Gardens Hotel.

Kew Sparkle DInner. (Photo Credit: Kew Sparkle).

Tickets cost £45 and includes a two course dinner, with bubbly on arrival, some fun games, a short auction and lots of time for catching up with friends old and new.

All proceeds raised will go towards the cost of the Kew Village Christmas Lights.

Kew Sparkle also raises money for charity and this year will be for Cocoon in supports of a Christmas day event for a very vulnerable group of young adults over the age of 18 who are leaving care.

To find out more about Kew Sparkle and more information on booking for the fundraising dinner visit their website.