Official Christmas Lights Switch On

Thamesmead dazzles at its official Christmas lights switch on.

Hundreds of Thamesmead residents joined in the countdown of the Peabody Group's second annual Christmas lights switch on.

Thamesmead residents, sisters Melissa and Phoebe Stevens turned on the Christmas lights, accompanied by Peabody's Interim Executive Director Thamesmead, Pauline Ford; Erith & Thamesmead MP, Teresa Pearce and Deputy Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich and Thamesmead Moorings Councillor, Obu Babatola.

Local choirs and community stall holders were joined by Santa, Frozen's Elsa and Olaf, real reindeers and Now's the Time Thamesmead's Clubacise taster session, who all entertained the crowd.

Peabody's Interim Executive Director for Thamesmead, Pauline Ford said: “It was fantastic to see so many residents enjoying an evening of entertainment, as we start counting down to Christmas. Thamesmead Town Centre looks spectacular with the clock tower, Christmas tree and the areas around the shops all lit up. We are looking forward to future lights switch on events and the coming years - continuing our work with residents, and both the London Borough of Bexley and Royal Borough of Greenwich, to help shape the future of Thamesmead.”

Four-year-old Melissa Stevens who helped to turn on the Christmas lights said: “Tonight has been a lot of fun. I can't believe I am turning on the Christmas lights.”

Meanwhile, six-year-old, Emily Perrin told us: “I love meeting Santa - I was first in queue as I couldn't wait to see him. I love Christmas - seeing family, opening presents and Christmas dinner.”

Peabody is working on a number of projects and developments as part of its neighbourhood improvement works, this includes the recently launched Lesnes to Crossness Path off Yarnton Way.

A pop-up ice rink will be available at Gallions Park in West Thamesmead this Saturday, 12 December, where Peabody will be engaging with residents about a new play area.