Up above the streets and houses Mertons Christmas lights are shining bright after Rainbow star Geoffrey Hayes performed the switch-on.

Geoffrey, who plays the king in this years Wimbledon Theatre panto Jack and the Beanstalk, lit the lights at Mitcham Clock Tower last week.

But instead of help from his TV friends Zippy, Bungle and George, Geoffrey had to make do with council leader Councillor Andrew Judge, Mertons mayor Councillor Stuart Pickover and his wife Concepta.

Festive musical entertainment came from the Merton Concert Band.

The first panto performance is on December 7. Call the box office on 020 8540 0362.