A SWINGNG Sixties-style Christmas fayre is set to start the festive season in Maldon this month.

The fifth annual vintage Christmas street fayre will be returning to the high street on Thursday, November 28.

The high street will be closed off to make way for various stalls and entertainment, late-night shopping and a switch-on of the Christmas lights.

Acts will all be wearing fancy dress to suit the theme.

This year’s theme is ‘flower power’, throwing everyone back to the swinging sixties.

Revellers are expecting to arrive in their best bell-bottom jeans and tie-dye T-shirts.

Last year’s theme was Fifties rock’n’roll and visitors definitely got into the spirit.

It is hoped the same can be said for this year.

Event chairman Michael Pearlman said it was set to be a successful event.

He said: “I founded this event five years ago and every year it gains momentum and more people have joined in.

“We expect to have the biggest turnout ever this year.

“I’ve seen it grow over the past five years and the success has been really great.

“It brings the community together and it’s unlike any other event.

“It’s all for the residents.”

Due to the estimated high turnout, there will be a record 85 stalls spanning the length of Maldon high street from West Square to the Promenade.

Three stages will host singing and dancing acts to fit the sixties theme.

Entertainment on the night includes shows from singers David Norwood, Susie Brown and the Big Sing Choir.

Stalls will be selling goods such as Christmas trees and wreaths, decorations and crafts, cheese and pies, artisan breads and cakes, chocolates, candles, clocks, wood carving and sweets.

Santa will also be making a special appearance along with his reindeer at a grotto by St Peter’s Church.

The event will be held from 4.30pm to 9pm. Mayor of Maldon Flo Shaughnessy will be switching on the lights.

Saint Fm will be putting on a variety of entertainment from the big stage which will be near All Saints’ Church and there will be a Winter Wonderland at the bottom of Brights Path and Old Mill Close.

Free double-decker shuttle buses will be available on the night from Morrisons, Tesco’s and the Museum Of Power.

To find out more about the festivities, visit visitmaldon.co.uk/events/maldon-christmas-fayre.php