London Eye lights up for Christmas

London’s skyline was flooded with colour yesterday when the British Airways London Eye was lit for Christmas for the first time with a spectacular fireworks and laser light show.

Lord Marshall of Knightsbridge, Chairman of British Airways, with superstar Kylie Minogue activated the 30 second music, firework and lighting extravaganza, which transformed the South Bank of the River Thames,

The world’s biggest observation wheel was bathed in rainbow colours against the backdrop of a burst of red, white and blue fireworks. Each of the 32 capsules on the 450ft high structure lit up in a sequence which ended with a final burst of white fireworks above and around the attraction.

Lord Marshall said: " I am delighted to welcome Kylie Minogue to help brighten up London this Christmas. It is very appropriate for us that her last single was called ‘Spinning Around’. This Christmas is the culmination of a very successful year for the British Airways London Eye which welcomed its three millionth visitor last week."

The event, which closed the river for 30 minutes, marked the start of seasonal festivities at London’s most popular attraction. The wheel will be lit throughout December until January 6 during the morning rush hour and in the evening. On December 16 two 25ft high Christmas trees will be placed at the base of the Eye together with a Santa sledge tableau where children can meet Father Christmas.