An East End legend has signed up as the Mayor’s “street party champion” to promote community spirit across London.

Boris Johnson’s drive to make London more neighbourly has received a major boost with Barbara Windsor MBE joining him as the Mayor’s street party ambassador.

In her role, Babs will promote community projects across London.

Today she and Mr Johnson rolled up their sleeves to help volunteers from a community project plant fruit and vegetables ahead of The Big Lunch on June 5.

The pair visited the prize-winning Rocky Park Urban Growers project in Ellsworth Street, Bethnal Green, where they met local residents and joined in planting redcurrants, potatoes and onions.

Working with The Big Lunch, the mayor wants London to become the street party capital of the world and is looking to recruit high profile local champions in every borough.

Carry On queen and former EastEnders star Babs said: “I come from this area and this is a great example of getting people together.

“Years ago you would all be family and you knew everyone in your street - we’ve got to get that back.

“I go back such a long way I can remember people having street parties but now it’s all been lost.

“London has always been known as a friendly city - what’s happened to us? I love London with a passion but where’s the warmth?”

The mayor hopes the excitement around the Royal Wedding, the 2012 Games, and the Diamond Jubilee will encourage Londoners to plan their own street parties.