A POPULAR carolling event which sees hundreds gather to celebrate Christmas every year saw even more success this year.

Described as a “flash mob”, the Maldon Carols on the Quay event saw 600 people in attendance this year.

Residents gather at the Hythe Quay in Maldon to sing Christmas carols, dance and play music.

This year more than £450 was raised for charity by donations from the public.

The annual event started 27 years ago when a group of friends met to sing carols together and has grown ever since.

The Christmas Eve event started at about 6.30pm, with a break allowing visitors to enjoy free mince pies and mulled wine together before breaking back into song.

Visitors carried on the festivities this year with more singing at the Maldon Little Ship Club.

An organiser for the event said: “It was very successful. Probably 600-plus people were there and we serve mulled wine and mince pies halfway through, with no charge but a donation to charity if people want.

“The event raised about £450 which goes to a local charity.”