Cat lights up Bond Street

It was an event that reminded shoppers what the festive season is really about.

The ceremonial switching on of the Christmas lights in Bond Street was celebrated with a group of children from Great Ormond Street Hospital and a children's choir singing carols.

TV presenter Cat Deeley hosted the event, which is sponsored by the Evening Standard and Bulgari.

As patron of the Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity, Deeley invited five children to accompany her.

She encouraged shoppers to donate to the charity, joking that she wanted "notes, not coins - after all, this is Bond Street."

Deeley, 27, said she was inspired by the patients and staff at Great Ormond Street. "I can't do anything like what the doctors and nurses do, which is so admirable, but I can chat to the kids." She was wearing a £2,900 diamond and pearl Bulgari necklace, which will be auctioned for the charity.

One of the children from the hospital, Tess Harrison, from Surrey, said she was delighted to be chosen to attend the event.

"Cat is lovely," she said. "I have designed a dress for her and she has invited us to a party later this month."

The Royal Russell School Choir entertained shoppers as stores stayed open late.

Phillip Baldwin, managing director of Bulgari, hosted a reception in its store.