Thousands of London’s Jewish residents gathered around the 30-foot menorah erected at Trafalgar square for a lighting ceremony with none other than Mayor Boris Johnson.

Organized by the mayor’s office and Chabad-Lubavitch of Hendon, the event saw Johnson and Chabad House director Rabbi Gershon Overlander being hoisted to the top of the giant menorah by a cherry picker.

While at the top, the mayor assisted in the lighting of the menorah by use of a torch.

Said Overlander: “It was awesome. Everyone was so excited to be there.”

On other nights, the 13-ton menorah is lit with LED lights to reduce its carbon footprint. …

The eight-day holiday of Chanukah began Sunday night. For more information, click here.