More than 500 people watched the Christmas lights being switched on in Elm Park on Friday night.

Ingrid Brandon was nominated by the Elm Park Regeneration Partnership after being selected to take part in the Olympic Torch relay this summer.

As the Torch did not visit the town at the time, they decided to bring it in time for Christmas.

Pupils from Elm Park Primary School and RJ Mitchell School led the carol singing and joined Ingrid in lighting the tree along with Games Maker Stephen Mayes and Camilla Eysell, a flame dancer at the Paralympics opening ceremony.

The winner of the Best Illuminated Shop Window competition was Anco Blinds with its advent display; and Best Dressed Shop Assistant on the night went to Val Nightingale of Ms Hair Studio, where staff wore black and gold for the event.

About 200 children queued to see Father Christmas and there were free carousel rides, games, tombolas and a Christmas fair.

Ingrid, who is also a member of the regeneration partnership, said: “We try to create a different look and feel to the event every year and a tribute to the fantastic Olympic and Paralympic Games was an easy choice to make.

“Havco provided us with a team of Havering ambassadors to help us this year and this highlights the important work of volunteers at such events, whether they are at a national or local level.”