2024 Christmas lights switched on

Oxford Street has switched on its annual Christmas lights display, becoming the first of the major London illuminations to be turned on for 2024.

More than 300,000 LED stars once again make up the lights, making them about 75% more energy efficient than standard lights.

It starts a season of events on Oxford Street including a partnership with Great Ormond Street Hospital’s GOSH Charity.

Business groups hope the lights will provide a boost to retailers too as they gear up for the Christmas trade over the next seven weeks.