A milkman has been chosen to turn on the Wanstead Christmas lights for the second year running.

Parker Dairies milkman Steve Hayden will be switching on the lights on the George Green Christmas tree, on November 22.

Steve has been chosen to come to support this year’s celebrations theme “a cleaner, greener, plastic free Christmas.”

“I believe it’s an important message”, said Steve. “If more people used glass milk bottles, like the ones we deliver, it would be better for the environment.

“I’m very proud because I don’t think they ever ask people to do it twice in a row so I’m very proud to do it again.”

There will also be local school choirs, a band, some panto characters and a milk float.

Last year, more than 150 attended the event, which saw milk and treats for children distributed.

"Everyone is looking forward to the event this year, with the cleaner greener theme. It is great when the community comes together to celebrate in this way," said Paul Donovan, Councillor for Wanstead Village.

"Christmas though is also a time to remember those less well off. The people across the world just struggling to survive. The homeless on our own streets and those forced to go to food banks. Christmas is very much a time to reach out to others."

The Christmas tree will be switched on at 4.30pm.