A fundraising appeal to light up Highgate in time for Christmas has been launched by organisers of the village’s annual yuletide festival.

Highgate Festive Events, the team in charge of the village’s switch-on event, need to raise between £14,000 and £15,000 to erect lights in Highgate High Street.

They have issued a plea to residents and businesses to give as much as possible to ensure the village is illuminated.

Haringey Council has confirmed it will give £4,000 towards the cost but organisers still need to find more.

Jane Wiles, of children’s boutique Notsobig in Highgate High Street, said: “If we don’t raise the money, we won’t be able to have lights in the High Street.”

TV presenter Alex Zane has confirmed he will host the event this year, which will also feature live reindeer and a camel.

If you would like to donate, drop donations into Prickett and Ellis Underhill estate agents or Notsobig in Highgate High Street.

Cheques are payable to Highgate Festive Events.