HAREFIELD'S Christmas tree was lit up on Friday – but celebrity Russell Grant could not make it along to do the honours.

Instead the tree was switched on by Councillor Henry Higgins and the Mayor of Hillingdon, Councillor Mary O’Connor.

The astrologer and former Harefield resident took to social network site Twitter to make his apologies.

He tweeted: “Gutted I can’t switch on the lights at my childhood village, Harefield. Stuck at hospital at home in Wales for more knee pre-op.”

Just 24 hours before, the Strictly Come Dancing star had attended a nursery in Denham, Bucks, to join their festive celebrations.

Saxophonists from Hillingdon Music Service performed at the event to a crowd on Harefield Village Green, and the St Mary’s Church choir also sang.