A late night shopping event will be held in Saffron Walden on Friday to raise money for young carers.

Saffron Walden Initiative is celebrating the legacy of William Winstanley - known as the man who saved Christmas.

In the 1600s Christmas was cancelled by Oliver Cromwell, and when his reign ended Winstanley, who lived in Quendon, was instrumental in bringing Christmas back.

The charity shopping night in Winstanley's honour will take place from 4pm to 9pm, with market and charity stalls in the town centre.

The event is sponsored by Saffron Hall, Saffron Building Society and councillors Richard Freeman, Paul Fairhurst and Heather Asker.

Father Christmas will make an appearance, and there will be an opportunity to write letters to him and send them via a festive post box.

Refreshments will be on offer including mulled wine, gin, cake, sausages and candyfloss, with a full licensed bar.

Musical entertainment will be provided on a live stage throughout the evening, with performances from Elliott Porter, Elli Grace, Nancy May, the Ukulele Band, and Coverman and Brown Paper Bag plus Rob Angelo.

All proceeds from the event will go towards Saffron Walden Young Carers, supporting the young carers' holiday at Fairycroft House.