A VINTAGE Christmas fair is set to return to Maldon for the third year in its latest form.

The event will take place next Thursday, and hopes to build on the success of last year’s festivities.

Thousands of people descended on Maldon High Street last year dressed in Shakespearean garb in recognition of the theme inspired by the famous bard.

This year, the costumes will be a bit more modern, as the vintage fair moves from the 1600s to the Forties.

Michael Pearlman, chairman of the organising committee, believes the new theme will prove just as popular with residents. The event will include performances from a number of acts reflecting the theme on the two stages, outside All Saints’ Church and The Swan pub on the High Street.

The performers will include a Vera Lynn tribute act, the Maldon drama group, the Big Sing, and many more.

Prizes will also be handed out on the night for the best dressed family in keeping with the forties theme, the best dressed stall, the best display for one of the large High Street shops, and the best display for one of the smaller High Street shops.

The night will feature the switching on of the Maldon Christmas Lights by the mayor at 7pm outside All Saints’ Church. Children will also get the chance to meet Father Christmas at the winter wonderland in Bright’s Path during the event on November 30.