A man who founded a community radio show turned on the Christmas lights after being secretly nominated by his wife.

Keith Chilvers won a competition, run by the Harrow Times, to find a hero to switch on the lights in Harrow town centre on Saturday night after being secretly nominated by his wife.

Mr Chilvers is the founder of Harrow Community Radio and an active volunteer in the community, and said he was “dumb-struck” to find out he had won by 91 per cent of votes.

The 51-year-old, who lives in Kenton, said: "I was just taken by such surprise, firstly by the nomination, then by actually winning.

"I had no idea who had even nominated me. As a radio host, I would usually be the one introducing the winner, but now I am the winner. I am extremely grateful to my wife."

Mr Chilvers switched on the lights alongside the Mayor of Harrow, Councillor Ajay Maru, who praised the radio host for giving the people of Harrow a voice.

The show has been on air at Northwick Park Hospital for 26 years.

Among its celebrations, Harrow's Christmas party staged performances by community acts including a Peppa Pig show and a fireworks display which was set off from the roof of St George's shopping centre as part of its whopping finale.

The event, organised by Harrow Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID), was held to bring Harrow together for the festive season.

Angela White, who took her children to the celebrations, said: "I think it is great how different cultures have come together for this event, both on stage and off. It is just a fantastic atmosphere."

Seven-year-old, Kirann, said: "I really like the lights. They are excellent. I am having a lot of fun and want to come again next year."

Six-year-old Tatum said: "It's fantastic. My favourite part of the day was seeing Octonauts and all its characters.

"I loved it. The fireworks were awesome too. I didn't get scared one bit."

Harrow Times:

Harrow Times: