CHRISTMAS officially arrived at Ealing Broadway with the switch-on of its festive lights.

Every weekend from now until Christmas, festive characters will be popping up at the centre.

This includes Santa and his trusty elf Twinkle, who will be ready to welcome visitors and listen to Christmas wishes. There will also be appearances from the Frosty the Christmas Unicorn, the Wintry Frosted Fairy and the Christmas Flower Girls.

Ealing Broadway’s reindeer, Broadway Blitzer, has also returned to Town Square and the Christmas Food Market will open there on December 4.

This weekend (27-28), visitors can head to the Bauble Bar and, for a donation, design a bauble to hang on their Christmas tree.

On the last weekend before Christmas, there will be a pop-up Wrapping Station to help shoppers wrap their presents.

Visitors will also be able to make contactless donations to the centre’s chosen charities, Ealing MENCAP and Ealing BEfriend, at the giant Giving Box outside Tesco.

Late-night shopping returns from December 6, with the centre open from 9am-8pm,  Monday to Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sundays.