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Tonight, 4 November, the world-famous Oxford Street Christmas lights were switched on by Tom Grennan, award-winning singer and songwriter in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity) with the help of Emily Mullen, who received life-changing care from Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH). Tom and Emily, who visited Oxford Street to experience the magic of the iconic lights, have officially kicked off Christmas in the capital as thousands of brilliant white stars now blanket the sky. 

Earlier today, Tom released his brand new festive single, “It Can’t Be Christmas (Amazon Music Original)”. The upbeat, feel-good track from the much-loved singer-songwriter is destined to become an instant Christmas classic and is available to listen to exclusively on Amazon Music now.  

Tom Grennan, Singer and Songwriter said: “It’s a huge honour to be invited to turn on this years’ Christmas lights on Oxford Street. Turning on the lights is the perfect way to kick off the festive season and there’s nowhere more iconic than Oxford Street. I’m particularly glad to be able to do this in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, who do the most incredible trailblazing work, giving seriously ill children across the country the best chance and the best childhood possible.” 

This year, the UK’s favourite shopping street has partnered with GOSH Charity to inspire visitors to spread a little festive joy. In the ultimate celebration of Christmas cheer, Oxford Street will play host to Big Day of JOY in support of GOSH Charity on 7 December, transforming the iconic destination into a vibrant hub of festive activity.  

Emily Mullen, who helped light up Oxford Street’s starry sky, was born with a severe heart condition and spent the first three months of her life at GOSH, undergoing open heart surgery at only seven days old. When Emily was transferred back to her local hospital, she was only given 24 hours to live. Fast forward a few years, and GOSH have since given Emily life-changing heart surgery. Emily also has severe sight loss and has multiple conditions that GOSH continue to support her with.  

Emily’s guardian, Val says: “Christmas is a special time of year for Emily as she can see all the lights and feel all the magic. For us, Christmas is all about family time, making memories and making sure Emily enjoys every bit of it. When she was a baby, I was told she wouldn’t make Christmas, so it’s a very special time of year for us.” 

GOSH Charity exists to help give seriously ill children at GOSH the best chance, and childhood, possible. Donations to the charity fund support services for children and their families such as the Play team and free family accommodation, life-saving medical equipment, ground-breaking research and the vital rebuilding and refurbishment of hospital wards and buildings. 

Throughout the festive period, members of the public can shop merchandise from GOSH Charity and make donations via the Oxford Street website, www.oxfordstreet.co.uk. Every donation will help make a big difference to the lives of seriously ill children and their families and provide the hope of many more Christmases to come. 

The light display provides a spectacular backdrop for visitors to explore the wonders of London’s ultimate festive destination and it’s also environmentally conscious having been made from recycled polymer and features more than 300,000 LED star lights which are 75% more energy efficient than standard bulbs. The stars will be illuminated for a reduced number of hours this year from 4pm to midnight. 

Dee Corsi, CEO at New West End Company commented: “Christmas has officially started as tonight we switched on our iconic Oxford Street lights. This year, we are thrilled to be partnering with Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity; GOSH Charity’s mission is to help give seriously ill children the best chance, and childhood, possible. Everyone has the opportunity to play their part by donating through the website or by joining us for a day shopping to really get into that festive spirit on 7 December for our Big Day of JOY” 

Liz Tait, Director of Fundraising at Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, said: “It was wonderful to watch the amazing Emily light up one of the world’s most famous streets this evening, kick-starting the festive season and the beginning of a fantastic partnership between Oxford Street and GOSH Charity. With opportunities to donate to the charity throughout the Christmas period, visitors to Oxford Street can make a huge difference to children like Emily who are undergoing life-saving treatment at GOSH. Donations to GOSH Charity this Christmas will help bring joy to children and their families at the hospital, whether through carol singing or Santa visits, and will enable us to fund services like free accommodation so families can spend precious time together.” 

CHRISTMAS IS JUST START ON OXFORD STREET - HERE’S WHAT NOT TO MISS!  

Oxford Street’s Big Day of JOY (7 December) in support of GOSH Charity is set to dazzle with on-street performances, unmissable in-store activities, and a plethora of festive experiences. Visitors are encouraged to gather their friends and family, wrap up warm, and head to Oxford Street for a day of festive fun, community spirit, and holiday magic – there’ll be a chance to give a little back too by donating to GOSH Charity.  

Oxford Street is brimming with Christmas activities, from the ever-popular Santa’s Grotto at John Lewis to the spectacular Christmas shop at Selfridges. Shoppers can indulge in seasonal menus and dishes from Aqua Kyoto to Market Halls and take advantage of Lush’s eco-friendly gift-wrapping services. 

While you’re there, why not peruse Adidas and Nike for cosy athleisure wear, pick up some presents in Zara or M&S, soak up some of the city’s culture by visiting Frameless or the brand new MOCO Museum, or get the family together for fun at Swingers or Boom Battle Bar. 

Stay up to date with the festivities @oxfordstreetw1. For festive inspiration, details on Big Day of JOY, or to donate to GOSH Charity visit oxfordstreet.co.uk.  

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