Mariah Carey requests 20 white kittens in London

Mariah Carey request to have 20 white kittens at a Christmas lights switch-on has been blocked.

The diva reportedly wanted the young felines and 100 white doves to accompany her at the extravagant switch-on ceremony at Westfield shopping centre, in west London.

She also requested to be showered with butterfly-shaped confetti - her favourite insect - while standing on a pink podium and waving a magic wand.

The American singer will arrive in a Rolls-Royce car and be accompanied by 80 security guards as well as her 15-strong entourage.

But while most of her demands have been met, health and safety officials refused her request to have kittens and doves - because animals are not allowed inside the complex.

A source told Britain's Daily Mail newspaper: "We did manage to source the doves that we were going to release into the sky, but the kittens proved terribly difficult.

"In the end, it was made clear that due to health and safety, there was no way we could have the animals at Westfield. Pets are not allowed in Westfield - that rule would apply for everyone.

"We have worked extremely hard to make sure that Mariah's event is fantastic. Even the model of car had to be changed six times to one that her people liked."

The 'Hero' singer, who is appearing on UK TV talent show 'The X Factor' this weekend, recently admitted she loves being a diva - but doesn't think she is demanding enough.

She said: "You know what? I guess I am a diva in many ways! When it comes to certain things, yes, I can be difficult and a little bit rigid about what I want.

"Am I demanding? I don't think I'm demanding enough."