Highgate Christmas light switch on with Andy Serkis & others

Highgate's annual festive event is taking place on Thursday (November 21) from 4pm outside the Highgate Society, in South Grove, Pond Square, hosted by television and radio presenter Alex Zane. 

Lord of the Rings actor Andy Serkis, and Lorraine Ashworth, who appeared in the BBC's Sherwood and Alma's Not Normal, are guests of honour.

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Two brass bands will perform, visitors can enjoy mulled wine as well as food from a churros van and offerings from Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen, Bar & Garden in Highgate High Street.

Chris Underhill, from estate agents Prickett & Ellis, said the team were "thrilled" to welcome the trio of stars.

He said: "Our usual sponsors have stepped up and so have a couple of others, which has allowed us a bigger splash of lights this year. We're still raising money and will be shaking buckets on the day.

"We are turning a tree by the bus terminus into a Christmas tree. The tree is slightly sad, it's not an evergreen, but we'll decorate it to look like a slightly scabby Christmas tree."

Television presenter and DJ Alex Zane is hosting the annual festive lights switch on in Highgate (Image: PA) Two years ago Harry Potter star Rupert Grint drew a huge crowd as he switched on the Christmas lights in Highgate.

Last year the event was under threat after Camden Council withdrew funding.

Haringey Council helped and the authority has contributed again this year, as have estate agents Winkworths and Taylor Gibbs, and Highgate Dental Practice and Channing and Highgate Schools.

The event, organised by Highgate Festive Events, is sponsored by developer Riverstone Living, which is building retirement homes in Bishops Avenue, known as 'Billionaire's Row'.

Mr Underhill added: "Enjoy a glass of fizz from our main sponsor Riverstone, brass bands, mulled wine, yummy snacks and hot drinks.

"Come and join this highly popular festive community event."