Patsy Kensit lights up Burlington Arcade this Christmas

Glamorous actress Patsy Kensit delighted crowds as she arrived at Burlington Arcade to turn on the Christmas lights on Wednesday night in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. Elizabeth Hurley was unable to attend due to personal reasons and instead secured her close friend Patsy, who stood in heroically at the last minute.

Britain’s oldest, grandest shopping arcade was awash with Christmas cheer; a winter fairytale in which chestnuts roasted, mulled wine flowed, and frosted windows showcased beautiful gifts to tempt and delight the 600 guests.

Father Christmas was also on the red carpet, handing out treats to all. Pyramids of golden Laduree macaroons added some sugar-spun magic to the occasion, while hearty Christmas canapes helped stave away any memories of the cold that lay outside the Arcade’s warm glow.

Patsy Kensit took to the stage at 8pm and shared with the crowd: “Burlington Arcade is a timeless, magical place. I am delighted to be here to turn on its Christmas lights in the same year as its restoration to former glory as our best loved and truly British shopping arcade. And I can certainly vouch that it’s a great place for Christmas shopping!”

She pressed the switch and the Arcade was flooded with light and swirling snow-like flutter-fetti. She ended by wishing everyone a Happy Christmas before accepting a cheque from the Burlington Arcade for £10,000 on behalf of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Burlington Arcade was Britain’s first shopping Arcade, opened in 1819 to great acclaim and now recognised as a historic and architectural masterpiece. The longest and most beautiful covered shopping street in Britain, this oasis of calm is one of London’s hidden treasures packed with luxurious accessories – renowned throughout the world for its individuality and craftsmanship. It has recently completed a multi-million pound renovation, returning it to its original splendour.

The Arcade epitomises impeccable service, specialist knowledge and elegant surroundings. From the classic to contemporary, a huge variety of the finest goods are on offer - softest cashmere to sparkling antiques, vintage watches, connoisseur writing materials, fine fragrance and top quality leather goods.

For more information, visit Burlington-arcade.co.uk.

To find out more about Macmillan Cancer Support, see Macmillan.org.uk.