UK comeback star Craig David has green-lit London’s festive shopping season by switching on Oxford Street’s Christmas lights for 2016.

The 35-year-old, who has been enjoying a career revival more than a decade after songs like Walking Away hit the airwaves, was on hand for the 57th annual switch-on moment.

The singer said: “It’s a great honour to be switching on the lights and lighting up Oxford Street. I hope everyone has a great Christmas and an incredible 2017.”

London mayor Sadiq Khan also attended as he prepared for his first Christmas in the “best job in the world”.

Asked what his wish this Christmas would be, he said: “My wish is for London to keep its place as the greatest city in the world.”

A large crowd turned out to see the yearly spectacle, thankfully spared after an earlier downpour eased in time for the street to be illuminated.

The dazzling 2016 display features stars and orbs and was achieved using more than 1,700 baubles and 750,000 LED bulbs.

This year also marks the first time the renowned shopping strip has partnered with a charity for its world-famous Christmas lights.

Child abuse prevention charity NSPCC has encouraged members of the public to donate a suggested £5 to name one of Oxford Street’s lights for someone special in their life, as part of their Little Stars campaign.

Other stars who have previously launched London’s festive shopping season have included Kylie Minogue, Jessie J and Robbie Williams.

The event also featured live performances from Nathan Sykes, The Vamps and last year’s X Factor winner Louisa Johnson.