WITHAM welcomed Christmas to town as its annual switch-on and fair returned to a “resounding success”.

Witham Town Council held the event on Saturday, which saw an increase in size with stalls along Newland Street, in the United Reformed Church, and both the Newlands and Grove Shopping Centre.

The festivities commenced with a traditional church carol service held in the Grove Shopping Centre at 2pm, setting the stage for the afternoon.

Braintree and Witham Times: Panto performers on stagePanto performers on stage (Image: Actual Radio/Witham Town Council)

The event reached its pinnacle with the Christmas light switch-on at 6pm.

The Witham Christmas Fair showcased an array of stalls offering unique and locally crafted goods, alongside a selection of festive food and drink.

Braintree and Witham Times: The event was packed out with visitors and residentsThe event was packed out with visitors and residents (Image: Actual Radio/Witham Town Council)

The main stage featured live performers, while the 'Crafters' Corner' within the United Reformed Church provided a haven for those seeking one-of-a-kind handmade gifts.

Braintree and Witham Times: Police keeping a watchful eye on the festive funPolice keeping a watchful eye on the festive fun (Image: Actual Radio/Witham Town Council)

Many shops and businesses chose to stay open late to make the most of the increased footfall in the town which also contributed to the atmosphere of the event.

Braintree and Witham Times: A minion roaming the streets of WithamA minion roaming the streets of Witham (Image: Actual Radio/Witham Town Council)

Some families took the opportunity to meet Santa in his Grotto in the town hall and receive a special gift, while the Grove Shopping Centre played host to live reindeer, Blitzen and Steve.

Braintree and Witham Times: The town hall lit up for ChristmasThe town hall lit up for Christmas (Image: Actual Radio/Witham Town Council)

Witham Town Council expressed its “sincere gratitude” to all who attended, as well as to sponsors Holmes and Hills Solicitors and the Grove Shopping Centre.

It also thanked the Witham Community Hub for providing the PA system for the carol service, saying the event was a “resounding success”.

Braintree and Witham Times: Stalls lined the streets of Witham for the returning Christmas FairStalls lined the streets of Witham for the returning Christmas Fair (Image: Actual Radio/Witham Town Council)

Town council leader Phil Barlow said: “Witham Town Council has held several Christmas events, such as the Dickensian and Cockney Market but we feel that this has been our most successful to date.

“By working with local businesses to include a larger area than last year we have been able to ensure the whole of the town centre benefits from the Christmas Fair.

“We look forward to continuing this free event next year for the residents of Witham.”