Christmas officially arrived in Whyteleafe on Wednesday December 8th as the lights on the tree in the middle of the town's roundabout were switched on.

A crowd of over 100 braved the icy conditions to witness the event, including local residents and members of the congregation of St. Luke's Church and Whyteleafe Free Church.

Carols were led by Reverend Bob Wealdon, the curate of St. Lukes, whilst the watching crowd consumed mince pies and mulled wine, before fireworks brought an end to a successful evening.

Tandridge District Councillor for Whyteleafe, Sakina Bradbury, said:

"This is the first time in the history of Whyteleafe that we have had a special 'Switching On' ceremony for the Christmas lights. It is fantastic. People will see that we are getting a real sense of community in Whyteleafe, I am so happy!"

The event was organised by the Whyteleafe Business Association with the help of Whyteleafe Parish Council, in particular Tom Dempsey, the landlord of the Whyteleafe Tavern, and the host for the evening.

The Association was set up in the spring to raise the profile of Whyteleafe and its businesses and enable networking amongst its members. More information is available at www.whyteleafebusinessassociation.co.uk, including a link to the association's first newsletter.