'We don't just tolerate our diversity, we respect and celebrate it': Sadiq Khan leads Hanukkah celebrations in Trafalgar Square
Mayor Sadiq Khan led the Hanukkah celebrations in Trafalgar Square as a huge crowd turned out to celebrate the start of the Jewish holiday.
A giant menorah was lit on Tuesday evening, taking pride of place in the central London square alongside the 20m Christmas tree from Norway.
The menorah will remain in place until December 20, with a different candle lit each day.
The festivities also included free sufganiyot doughnuts and a performance by acapella group the Maccabeats.
Mr Khan shared a selfie with the large crowd from the stage with the caption: “Amazing atmosphere in Trafalgar Square as Londoners of all faiths & backgrounds come together to celebrate #Chanukah.”
He added: “Here in London, our menorah stands side by side with our Christmas tree. We just don't tolerate our diversity, we respect and celebrate it.”
'Chanukah is a celebration of hope over fear, light over darkness and freedom over oppression - and that's the London we love' @MayorofLondon at #ChanukahSq17 @JLC_uk #HappyChanukah pic.twitter.com/pc7dcna1Zz
— Mayor's Press Office (@LDN_pressoffice) December 12, 2017