It took Agatha Christie’s private sleuth Hercule Poirot to use his little grey cells to turn St Katharine’s Docks into a blaze of colour.

East London Advertiser: You don't get Santa's hat any bigger than this one, all lit up at St Katharine's-by-the-Tower. Picture: Lucy YoungYou don't get Santa's hat any bigger than this one, all lit up at St Katharine's-by-the-Tower. Picture: Lucy Young (Image: © Lucy Young 2017)

Renowned actor David Suchet, best known for his role as the Belgian detective operating in 1930s London in the long-running ITV series, threw the switch for the festive Christmas tree lights.

St Katharine’s marina by the Tower of London has now been transformed by sparkling lights and a dazzling display of seasonal decorations.

These include a 15ft-high Santa hat which has proved an attraction for visitors to pose for pictures and a large fairy-lit anchor on Marble Quay.

The quayside was packed when Suchet turned on the festive lights on Thursday evening.

East London Advertiser: Blaze of lights on traditional Christmas tree that actor David Suchet switched on at St Catharine's Docks. Picture: Lucy YoungBlaze of lights on traditional Christmas tree that actor David Suchet switched on at St Catharine's Docks. Picture: Lucy Young (Image: © Lucy Young 2017)

Carol singing was led by the City Chamber Choir while mulled wine and mince pies were being served for the start of St Kat’s Christmas season.