Festive shoppers flocked to the market town of Malmesbury to enjoy its annual late night shopping.
Despite the wet and windy weather, crowds came out to enjoy the festive atmosphere of stalls, with shops and businesses opening late. This year, weather forced stalls to move inside the Town Hall, where more than 30 traders provided shopping and festivities across two floors. Hot food vendors were in the town’s Market Cross, and local cafés and restaurants served festive favourites.
The event was officially opened by Malmesbury Mayor Cllr Stephen James, accompanied by his Mayoral Cadet Rosa Clough, Mace Bearer Stephen Caygill, Town Crier Owain Cole, and Chair of the organising committee Cllr Olivia Wallis.
This year’s best dressed window competition was won by The Summer Café, second place was Cherry Tree and third was Malmesbury Opticians.
And children and families got the chance to meet Santa and his elves, in a special Malmesbury grotto.
“It was wonderful to see so many people in the town enjoying themselves, and making the most of what our town has to offer, and many shops are very generous in offering refreshments for their customers,” said Cllr James.
“A big thank you to everyone who put so much hard work into making the event a success. It is run largely by volunteers, including the organising committee, stewards from among local people, and members of 9 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps who oversaw the road closure. Plus we get huge support from the Town Hall staff. It’s a great start to the festive period.”
Article by Jo Smyth, Word Worker
