Marlow’s Christmas lights were secretly switched on by a surprise celebrity guest this year.

Bucks Free Press:

Former BBC radio DJ Chris Evans came to the town in the middle of the night, hotly pursued by a socially-distanced film crew.

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He was there with his son, Noah, to surreptitiously turn on the Christmas lights – an annual event that would normally see crowds packed into the High Street.

Bucks Free Press:

Mr Evans announced his nighttime activities live this morning on his Virgin Radio breakfast show, with residents able to see the lights in their full glory later today.

The presenter also recorded a short film, which shows him turning on the famous lights display from various locations and speaking about his love for the town.

He said: “As you may know, I absolutely love Marlow. So I couldn’t be more thrilled when the local council asked me to turn the Christmas lights on.”

Bucks Free Press:

He came to the town at 3.55am in his red sports car, accompanied by his son who was dressed in a Santa costume.

The film also featured mayor Richard Scott, top Marlow police officer Sgt Robin Hughes and an electrician named only as Josh.

At the end of the film, the iconic Marlow Bridge is also briefly illuminated thanks to lighting company Lumatech.

Bucks Free Press:

All pictures: MyMarlow

Cllr Scott said: “We’re hugely grateful to Chris for helping us to switch on our renowned Christmas lights this year.

“We were sorry to have to cancel the live event, but hopefully this will make up for it. The team has done a fantastic job in creating the film, and we very much hope people will enjoy the results.”