Oliver Dowden, Member of Parliament for Hertsmere, joined in celebrations for the annual Diwali festival of lights at a range of events in Westminster and Hertsmere last week.

Last Monday, Oliver joined his Grace Srutidharma das, the Temple President of Bhaktivedanta Manor, for an event in Downing Street where his Grace led the prayers for Diwali in front of the Prime Minister and other distinguished guests. Oliver was also at the event last Wednesday in Parliament with leading Hindu Parliamentarians such as Lord Popat.

The week of festivities ended on Sunday evening when Oliver enjoyed the celebrations in Hertsmere at Bhaktivedanta Manor with a number of parliamentary colleagues and temple-goers.

Oliver said: ‘It was great to see Hertsmere at the very heart of this year’s Diwali celebrations. I am proud that we are home to the UK’s leading Hindu temple, and it was fantastic to speak to thousands of devotees on Sunday. Nationally too Hertsmere residents were central to celebrations.

One of our great strengths is the diversity of our community locally and last week's events were just another illustration of that.’