Members of a community came out in force to celebrate their new Christmas lights and engage in an afternoon of festive joy.

Residents of Harrow Weald gathered in High Road and enjoyed carol singing and a host of Christmas treats as they were joined by a number of Harrow councillors and their MP, Bob Blackman.

Organised by the Friends of Harrow Weald Recreation Centre, people wore their finest ‘Christmas themed’ outfits as they looked to boost community spirit.

Caren Duhig, a member of the Friends group, said: “It was a lovely afternoon; everyone did a great job.

“The lights really brighten up the area and it was great to see so many people turn up for such a wonderful event.”

She explained how the excellent musical entertainment and thoughtful speeches complemented the overall vibe of the afternoon.

“Harrow Weald has had quite a lot of bad press over the months, with issues relating to crime and rubbish, so it was nice to see something positive,” she added.

Food was provided by Waitrose and Bombay Central to ensure that the carol singers’ energy levels remained high.

The supermarket also donated a Christmas hamper, which was given out as a prize in a raffle at the event.

The public lights, thought to be the first in Harrow Weald, were arranged by the ward councillors Stephen Greek, Ramji Chauhan and Pritesh Patel.

Mr Greek said: “It was great to see the lights in all their glory as they were something we had worked on with the council.

“I think they went down very well and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.

“It was wonderful for all of us to support the Friends of Harrow Weald Recreation Ground and all the fantastic work that they do.”