The faces of Thamesmead residents were illuminated at a spectacular three-hour long Chistmas lights switch-on.

Taking place near the clock tower, the lights, including 3000 bulbs wrapped around a 25ft Christmas tree, were switched on by Erith and Thamesmead MP Teresa Pearce. 

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Teresa Pearce MP, Alfie Griffin – fancy dress winner, and the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Coun Mick Hayes – switching the lights on

Students from The Business Academy Bexley sung carols during event which featured a Santa’s grotto, face painting, story-telling, dance displays by Thamesmead School of Dance and Dynamix and stalls run by a number of local community groups.  

There was also a 'best Christmas fancy dress' competition which was won by nine-year-old Alfie Griffin who was dressed as an angel.

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Dynamix Dance Group performing

The event, on Friday December 5, was organised by Trust Thamesmead and the Peabody Group, while the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Coun Mick Hayes, also attended.

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Bexley Business Academy Choir performing

Erith and Thamesmead MP Teresa Pearce said: "It was an honour to switch on the Christmas tree lights and to see so many people getting into the festive spirit. 

"This last year has seen a lot of changes across Thamesmead, and I hope that next year we’ll see many more positive developments for local people." 

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3-year-old Latifa Sangare