A POPULAR Christmas street fair brought the festive cheer back to a village last week after a seven-year gap.

The Tiptree Christmas Fayre committee revived the festive tradition which had previously attracted around 4,000 when it last took place in 2012.

The evening featured carol singers, morris dancers, more than 100 street stalls, festive food, Santa, fancy dress, a First World War re-enactment at St Luke’s church and a battlefield ambulance on display.

Kelvedon Rotary Club provided Santa and his sleigh and Layer Marney Carriages provided a magical princess carriage with white horses which was ridden by two princesses down Church Road.

A committee spokesman said: “We would like to thank everyone who took part, whether you were a stallholder, volunteer, committee member, one of our suppliers or came along to support us on the night.

“A special thank you to all the local businesses that donated to help us succeed.

“It’s early days yet to decide whether we will do this for 2020. There is an awful lot of work that goes into running and managing an event like this, especially the fundraising.

“But if we get the support again we are sure it could happen with all of your help.”

Donna Cullum, of Tiptree, said: “Can I just say a big thank you to the wonderful people of Tiptree. You came out in force tonight to support the Christmas fayre.

“We hear so many negative things about the village, but tonight is what Tiptree is all about and what makes this village very special.”

Money raised from the event will be donated to schools in the area.