Oliver lit this year’s Bushey Christmas lights in Mary Forsdyke Gardens on Saturday evening.

The switch on was part of Bushey’s Festival of Lights, a cross faith event to mark Christmas and Chanukah in the village.

After driving Santa and his Elf into the event in their electric sleigh, Oliver, with some help from his family, pressed the plunger to turn on the Christmas lights.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Dowden said: ‘It was great fun to switch on Bushey’s lights this year! We have a fantastic community spirit here in Bushey and it was wonderful to see everyone coming together to celebrate Christmas and Chanukah.

‘I was also honoured to take Rudolf’s place for an evening and make sure Santa made it to the Festival!

The Chanukah lights at the event were lit by the Deputy Mayor of Hertsmere, Cllr Rabbi Alan Plancey and the Festival also organised a stall where locals could donate presents to Keech, the children’s and adult hospice.