MAYOR of London Boris Johnson joined Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains last Thursday for a celebration of Diwali in Wembley.

Mr Johnson visited the Shri Sanatan Hindu Mandir, in Ealing Road, to mark the annual Festival of Light as well as attending celebrations in Neasden and Trafalgar Square.

The traditional religious festival marks the New Year, and is celebrated across the country.

Mr Johnson said: “As Londoners and people around the world mark Diwali and the start of the Hindu New Year, I am delighted to take part in celebrations at these two important mandirs.

“Diwali is about new beginnings and a commitment to family values and has lessons we can all appreciate, representing joy, love, reflection, resolution, forgiveness, light and knowledge.

“But these magnificent temples also illustrate the value of community and in particular volunteering, which are at the heart of Team London, my own action plan for volunteering – something I hope some of those attending the mandirs will want to get involved in.

“To Hindus in London and everywhere a happy Diwali – have a prosperous and happy New Year.”