Award-winning actor Martin Freeman lit up Marylebone Village with the Christmas lights switch-on this week.

The event, held Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 3pm to 8pm, was organised and funded by The Howard de Walden Estate and supported Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity.

Freeman switched on the festive lights at 6pm on the Devonshire Street stage, which was hosted by local resident and broadcaster Jo Good.

Shoppers were treated to an evening of late-night shopping, market stalls, a Santa’s Grotto, Ferris Wheel, live music, and the popular charity tombola on Marylebone High Street.

The tombola offered prizes from various Marylebone Village brands, with all proceeds going to GOSH Charity to aid seriously ill children.

The funds raised this festive season will help bring joy to Great Ormond Street Hospital's wards and support services.

This includes free accommodation for families, ensuring they can partake in festive activities from early morning to Christmas night.

Marylebone Village's festive activities, including the Santa’s Grotto and tombola, directly contribute to creating magical memories for children at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

The donations will help fund Christmas parties, bedside carols, and other festive perks that bring joy to the children during the holiday season.

The Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity supports sick children and their families, ensuring they have the best possible chance and childhood.

The charity funding goes beyond the festive season, aiding in the overall care and happiness of the children in the hospital.