Oxford Street Christmas Lights Switch On 2014, hosted by John Lewis

The countdown to Christmas officially started on Thurs 6 November with the Oxford Street Christmas Lights Switch On Event at the John Lewis flagship store. Thousands of shoppers joined together to watch the big switch on, now in it's 55th year.

New West End Company launched a nationwide Oxford Street social media talent competition, giving one lucky person the chance to perform on stage. The winner of "Talent Starts Here" is Lauren Mae Kidd, a sixteen year old from Highbury, Islington, who joined an incredible line up of Cheryl, Rixton, Jess Glynne and Neon Jungle along with Capital’s Dave Berry and Lisa Snowdon, who led the evening’s proceedings.

Cheryl said: “Being a part of the Oxford Street Christmas lights switch on has made me feel all Christmassy! I was delighted to help officially kick off the festive season by flicking the switch that lit up London so magically.”

Oxford Street competition winner, Lauren Mae Kidd said: “I will remember tonight for as long as I live. Performing on my favourite shopping street, with such an incredible line up, was out of this world. Now I’ve performed to such a large crowd, I’m going to do everything I can to make a career in the music industry.”

The Oxford Street Christmas Lights marks the start of the West End festive shopping season, with Bond Street and Regent Street Illuminations to follow in the coming weeks.

[Dkbox-]

Guys see Lauren mae Kidd that’s my sister