CHRISTMAS arrived in Braintree at the weekend as the lights were switched on and the festive season got underway.

The Braintree Christmas Market took place on Saturday, which coincided with the light switch-ons in George Yard and at the Boars Head pub.

The Christmas market, run by Braintree Council, featured more than 50 stalls from local traders including bars, street food, local produce and Christmas gifts and decorations.

Braintree and Witham Times: Bernie from the Boars Head singing in the snowBernie from the Boars Head singing in the snow (Image: Stacey Cosens/BDC)

Trader Olivia Washington was delighted with the day’s success, saying: “It was really busy and a really great day.

Braintree and Witham Times: An angel stilt walker at George YardAn angel stilt walker at George Yard (Image: Stacey Cosens/BDC)

“There were loads of traders and a real spirit and lovely festive atmosphere.

“All the traders were worried about the turnout, but it was a successful business day for myself and others.”

Braintree and Witham Times: The Braintree and Bocking Brass BandThe Braintree and Bocking Brass Band (Image: Stacey Cosens/BDC)

As well as the stalls, entertainment was provided throughout the afternoon at George Yard and the Boars Head, including singers, circus performers, brass bands and appearances from Santa Claus.

Braintree and Witham Times: An elf stilt walker at George YardAn elf stilt walker at George Yard (Image: Stacey Cosens/BDC)

George Yard Shopping Centre provided entertainment from 1pm to 5.30pm, including performances from local groups such as Bocking Brass Band, stilt-walkers and a Santa meet and greet.

Braintree and Witham Times: Meadow Oak Distillery and council chairman Diana GarodMeadow Oak Distillery and council chairman Diana Garod (Image: Stacey Cosens/BDC)

This was followed by the official countdown where Santa, who was joined by Braintree Council chairman Diana Garrod, pushed the big red button and lit up Braintree town centre at 5.30pm.

Braintree and Witham Times: Ms Garrod visiting the Pink Cottage Crafting stallMs Garrod visiting the Pink Cottage Crafting stall (Image: Stacey Cosens/BDC)

Ms Garrod said: “It was fantastic to see the town so busy and everybody out and enjoying the day. I enjoyed meeting local traders and admiring the entries for the Christmas window competition.”

Braintree and Witham Times: Santa visiting the Tipsy Bubbles stallSanta visiting the Tipsy Bubbles stall (Image: Stacey Cosens/BDC)

The Boars Head, alongside Shake Express Braintree, Blast Music And Comics and other businesses at the fountain end of the High Street, also provided entertainment throughout the afternoon with a stage and entertainment finishing with a lights switch-on and countdown at 6pm.

Braintree and Witham Times: Stars of the Puss in Boots panto at the Witham Public HallStars of the Puss in Boots panto at the Witham Public Hall (Image: Stacey Cosens/BDC)

A spokesman for Braintree Council said: “What an amazing day in Braintree.

“Thank you to the many of you who came out and supported the market and switch-ons today in George Yard Shopping Centre and the Boars Head.

“Thank you to the traders and entertainers who braved the cold all day and everyone who worked together to put together a fantastic day.”