Saffron Walden Town Council’s Christmas Fayre on Sunday was a “dreamed-for result”.

Saffron Walden Reporter: Saffron Walden Christmas Fayre. Pictures: Katalin KarolyiSaffron Walden Christmas Fayre. Pictures: Katalin Karolyi (Image: © Katalin Karolyi. All rights reserved.)

Thousands of people attended the festive kick-on, including Christmas lights switch-on, as the town geared up for the festive season.

Town clerk Simon Lloyd said: “There was amazing entertainment all through the day, and despite the weather early on, a terrific turn-out and everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves.

“There were some stunning performances by the King Driscoll Band, the Walden Buskers, Holly and the Paintpot Boys. Ben ‘Jammin’ Smith was also exceptional and kindly helped out while the next act was slightly delayed. But weren’t they worth waiting for.

“Pure Rhythm were brilliant and both groups kept the town entertained.

“The Flossy bench presentation went well, and we were very pleased to see the Saffron Players and Tracey Palmer with her hoops. The Jazz trio performed with great skill as did Hyperfusion.

“It was a real delight to have the Military Wives Choir from Wimbish performing for us – what a terrific talent – and then the outstanding combined children’s choir from Clavering, St Mary’s, Katherine Semar and RA Butler, and the awesome choir of St Marys Church, joining the Military Wives towards the end.

“Finally, a huge thanks to the mayor for organising the switch-on of the lights and for inviting the special guest – Father Christmas.”

Mayor Keith Eden said: “What a fantastic day. The rain held off, all the hard work put in by the 100-plus folk who contributed to the day produced the dreamed-for result.

“I’ve never heard a crowd roar so loud when the Christmas lights came on and Father Christmas and his elves started dispensing seasonal chocolate.

“The atmosphere was wonderful, the children beautifully behaved and I, as mayor, was immensely proud to be part of this fantastic town.”