The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today sent his Christmas message to Londoners – encouraging all to choose kindness over harshness.

In his video message, the Mayor said: “I’d like to wish all Londoners – and everyone celebrating around the world – a very Merry Christmas.

“This is a special time of year. A time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus, spend precious time with our loved ones, and take stock of the year that’s passed.

“It’s also a time to be thankful for everything we have, pay tribute to our amazing emergency services who’ll be working hard over the holiday period, and offer help to those who are less fortunate – the sick, the vulnerable and the homeless.

“At City Hall, we’ve launched a new campaign to tackle the shameful level of rough sleeping in London. And I’m so proud of the incredible generosity we’ve already seen from Londoners.

“Our Christian communities – guided by their faith and values – are often at the forefront at this time of year when it comes to highlighting – and helping – those in need.

“Their actions – putting into practice the values of kindness, love and generosity – never cease to inspire me.

“And so, at a time when our society often seems divided - I encourage all Londoners to choose kindness over harshness - and be inspired by the teachings of Jesus, who urged us to ‘love thy neighbour’.

“I hope you, your family and your friends have a Merry Christmas.”