SEASONAL events, colourful lights and free parking will all help spread the Christmas cheer in Hillingdon.

This Friday (29) at 5.30pm, the Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr David Yarrow, will switch on the Christmas tree lights on the Civic Centre forecourt.

It will be accompanied by carols and hymns sung by a choir of borough schools and music from the Hillingdon Music Service Brass Band.

Gifts will fill the £5-a-go shoebox raffle, with items donated by businesses and all proceeds going to the Mayor’s Charity Appeal.

Those attending can enjoy complimentary hot drinks (subject to availability) and a decorated wooden arbour seat, where residents can take photos or selfies. 

This year, the council is investing £285,000 in Christmas lighting displays across 28 locations, including four community-led events from the Ickenham Festival Committee, Northwood Residents Association, Northwood Hills Residents Association and Ruislip Manor Chamber of Commerce. 

From Saturday (30), the Rural Activities Garden Centre, Yiewsley, will be offering cut Nordmann fir non-drop trees, home-grown potted trees and other accessories. Tree sizes vary from 5-8ft and prices range from £35-40. 

READ MORE: Scratchcard jackpot for West Drayton firefighter

READ MORE: Goodbye Ruby Tuesday as grand old lady leaves Harefield

READ MORE: Safe Drive Stay Alive tips for Hillingdon youngsters

Uxbridge town centre is also hosting the Tinsel Town Christmas market until Saturday, December 28.

The market features 30 wooden chalets, with live music on stage plus children's activities, including street performances every Sunday throughout December, as well as a Santa’s Grotto and a Christmas train.

The borough’s libraries are getting into the festive spirit by hosting activities including Ruislip Belles & Beaux Hand Bell Ringers at Uxbridge, South Ruislip and Manor Farm, Pantomime Pandemonium at Oak Farm Library and decoration-making at other venues. 

For a full list of activities, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/christmas

On Saturday, December 21, the Battle of Britain Bunker Exhibition and Visitor Centre will be displaying wartime era Christmas cards.

The borough is offering free weekend parking in council-owned car parks in the lead-up to the festive period, for those using their HillingdonFirst card.

On Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day it will be free for all residents and visitors to park at each of the council’s car parks and on-street parking bays.