Crowds turned out in force last night (November 13) to see Sherlock and Hobbit star Martin Freeman switch on the festive lights in Marylebone village.

The Merry Marylebone Christmas Lights event saw broadcaster and local resident Jo Good hosting the stage in Devonshire Street from 3-8pm, with the official switch on at 6pm.

To celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season, the network of streets around Marylebone Lane, Moxon Street, New Cavendish Street, Devonshire Street, Paddington Street, Blandford Street and George Street held an evening of late-night shopping, market stalls, a Santa’s Grotto, a Ferris Wheel, and live music.Crowds enjoyed market stalls, late night shopping, a ferris wheel and Santa's grotto.Crowds enjoyed market stalls, late night shopping, a ferris wheel and Santa's grotto. (Image: Supplied)

There was also the ever-popular charity tombola on Marylebone High Street offering the chance to win fantastic prizes from a host of Marylebone Village brands.

The event was organised and funded by the area's landowner The Howard de Walden Estate, with proceeds from activities like the grotto and tombola supporting charity partner Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity.

Proceeds from festive activities go to Great Ormond Street Hospital's charity.Proceeds from festive activities go to Great Ormond Street Hospital's charity. (Image: Supplied)

Funds raised will help staff at the hospital bring joy to the wards and create magical memories – whether through bedside carols or Christmas parties.

It will also help fund support services like free accommodation so loved ones can be there for stocking unwrapping to bedtime stories on Christmas night.