Islington ‘royalty’ Phyllis and Bobby Broadbent switched on Christmas lights at Angel Central Shopping Centre on Saturday to the glee of local residents.
“I’m very happy to be turning on Angel’s Christmas lights this year, as the borough of Islington is very important to me,” said borough Pearly Queen Phyllis Broadbent.
For the first time, managers of the shopping centre teamed up with Angel AIM business group to light up three streets— Upper Street, Chapel Market and Liverpool Road— at the same time.
“We are really excited to be working with Angel London to create a grand light switch-on that will illuminate the whole area,” said Lynne Glover, Centre Manager at Angel Central.
Irina George, PR officer, Angel Central Shopping Centre, said they hoped to light up the entire Islington borough from one spot.
The ‘royal’ pair, who are part of The Pearlies Charity – a group raising funds for charity across London – were joined by Father Christmas and his elves.
The elves took pictures and gave sweets to children at the event.
“It has been a wonderful evening because for us, Christmas starts today,” said Helen Jackson who attended the ceremony with her two children.
Every year, a different charitable organisation is responsible for turning on the Christmas lights, an arrangement that helps to engage the locals and raise awareness for good causes.
“During Christmas people are more caring and this helps charities to raise more funding,” said Irina George.
Photo: Arnau Vila Buch
