A VINTAGE Christmas fayre saw thousands arrive in town to kick off the festive season.

Maldon’s 60s-style vintage Christmas street fayre invited guests to enjoy more than 80 stalls offering festive food, drinks, and gifts.

Three stages offered a range of entertainment throughout the evening, providing a wonderful winter atmosphere.

Organiser Michael Pearlman said: “People started arriving and in the end, there were almost 5,000 people who visited this event.

“Children enjoyed and queued to see Father Christmas and his reindeers in the grounds of St Peter’s Church.

“The mayor of Maldon switched on the lights at 6pm and the town was lit up.

“I would like to send my thanks to the staff at Maldon Town Hall and my working party who helped to put this event together.

“A big thanks to all the sponsors and to all the people who attended, now one of the biggest events in Maldon.

“Soon we will all start preparing for next year’s event, but first let’s all enjoy Christmas.”