Children from schools in East Ham and Stratford helped Newham Mayor Sir Robin Wales switch on Christmas lights.

Hundreds of people were in East Ham’s High Street North where children from Vicarage School took part in a lantern procession to herald the switch-on.

Pupils from Nelson School sang carols and the Newham Music Academy brass band played.

In Stratford, Carpenters School’s All Sorts Choir sang for councillors, residents and businesses to mark the switch-on and the opening of a Christmas craft market in the courtyard of the Old Town Hall.

Sir Robin said: “Some local councils cancelled their Christmas lights this year as they, like us, battle with the cuts imposed by the government.

“In Newham we continue to embrace the spirit of Christmas. People want to see Christmas lights, Christmas trees and carol services and we will not hesitate in supporting them.

“Life without celebration and fun is poorer for it. Our town centre areas have all got their lights – and this year they are more energy-efficient to boot.”