Trafalgar Square's towering Christmas tree is one of the season's best-loved traditions, and this year it got the royal seal of approval as Prince Haakon of Norway and his family attended the lighting ceremony.
The crown prince's two-year-old daughter, Ingrid, was chosen to perform the honours. With the help of her mum Mette-Marit, the tot confidently pushed the button to light up the magnificent Norwegian spruce, as her half-brother Marius and proud dad looked on.
As in past years, the tree - which was felled from forests surrounding Oslo in November - is a gift from Norway to the people of London. It represents the Scandinavian nation's gratitude for Britain's support during the Second World War, and has been an integral part of the Trafalgar Square decorations since 1947.
Hundreds of Londoners turned out for the 'lighting up' ceremony, where choristers from local church St Martin-in-the-Fields led the carol singing. The tree will remain in Trafalgar Square until January 6 when it will be recycled.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
