It's singing in the rain at the Essex Road Christmas switch-on!

1.10.00pm GMT Tue 8th Dec 2009

Bridget Fox and local Canonbury Councillors Barbara Smith and Lucy Watt help Jason Merrells switch on the Essex Road Christmas lights

Last week saw the Essex Road Christmas lights switched on by actor Jason Merrells (Cutting It, Casualty) with Canonbury's local Councillors and PPC Bridget Fox in attendance.

Entertainment came in the form of Christmas songs courtesy of Rose Bowl Youth Club and New River Children's Centre, who kept spirits up despite the rain.

Rev. Nigel Williams was the MC for the evening while the Essex Road traders provided free food and shelter after the switch-on.

Bridget Fox said:

"The Essex Road switch-on had a great turn-out despite the rain! Local Lib Dem Councillors played a vital role in securing funding for the Christmas lights again this year, which will be enjoyed by everyone in the community.

Spirits and lights were bright as the Rose Bowl Youth Club and New River Children's Centre led us all in singing carols.

The Essex Road traders made everyone very welcome and the mince pies afterwards went down a treat. It was a great way to see in the festive season and I'm proud to be part of such a vibrant community."