Massive crowds gathered in Melton for the Victorian Christmas Fayre

Victorian goodies for sale from Chris Browne, Wendy Nye and Kelly Dawn PHOTO: Tim Williams

Starting on Friday night with the lights switch-on event in Market Place and the arrival of Father Christmas, the event continued on Saturday and Sunday with numerous stalls and live entertainment.

Winter sunshine and free parking across town brought out bumper crowds to make the fayre one of the best ever according to organisers.

Families enjoyed a visit from Queen Victoria and the Snow Queen and browsed the Christmas market positioned along the High Street. They were also enthralled by eye-catching ice sculpting demonstrations outside the Melton Building Society.

Plenty of things to amuse Queen Victoria and friends at the Victorian Fayre PHOTO: Tim Williams

Organiser Ruth Wakeling said: “The weather was much better this year and the entertainment was absolutely outstanding.

“We had over 43 coaches arrive from around the country and all the market traders and shopkeepers dressed in period costumes which was great.

“Thanks to everyone who came along or supported the event in some way. I’d also like to praise Jonathan McGrady for the wonderful job he did hosting the event across the three days.”

More attractions included birds of prey, falconry, a puppet show, travelling show, Shire horses and rare breeds as well as the Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary’s Church and Festival of Cribs at Sage Cross Methodist Church.

Historical re-enactors Jed Jaggard and Adam Cockerill dressed to impress PHOTO: Tim Williams

Shelagh Core added: “The footfall on Friday and Saturday was up by 30 per cent compared to the previous week and on Sunday, we had 26,683 people visit the town centre.

“The lights switch-on event was also the busiest I’ve been involved with I think because all the attractions were spread out over three days.”