MORE than 100 hardy souls braved the cold weather to enjoy a feast of festive music and song at Wanstead's big Christmas lights switch-on.

Young carol singers from Wanstead Church School sang a range of Christmas favourites, accompanied by the Woodford Corps of the Salvation Army Brass Band at the popular event on Friday.

Redbridge Mayor Thomas Chan was on hand to flick the switch on George Green - which illuminated a Christmas tree and bathed the High Street in glittering lights.

Cllr Chan said that as a Wanstead councillor himself he was particularly proud to turn on the area's lights - which cost £10,000.

He said: "It was a wonderful event and it has been a big highlight for me.

"We had a few people complain about the lights last year, but I don't think they could be disappointed with this year's ones.

"They look really impressive and were definitely money well spent.

"Thank you so much to all those who took part in the switch-on this year."

The mayor believes the lights will play an important role in helping to attract shoppers to the area over the festive period.

The Mall in Ilford will be open from 9.30am until 5pm on Christmas Eve for last-minute shopping.

It will also be open for business for bargain-hunters on Boxing Day from 9.30am until 6pm.

Lakeside Shopping Centre will also be open on Christmas Eve from 10am until 5pm and on Boxing Day from 8am until 7pm.