Malmesbury ho-ho-hosts successful Christmas shopping bonanza

Malmesbury town centre was packed as many hundreds turned out for an annual event which marks the start of the festive season – Christmas Late Night Shopping.

Shops and cafes flung open their doors, and streets were lined with stalls selling everything from jams and chutneys, to jewellery, gifts and games. There was even a small steam engine on show and Santa, of course, took up residence in his grotto.

Food and drink stalls did a roaring trade, and the roads and Town Hall (which hosted a craft market) were jampacked with visitors.

The event was officially opened at the Market Cross by BBC Health Editor Hugh Pym, who grew up in Malmesbury.

“I am absolutely blown away by the amazing atmosphere tonight and privileged and honoured to have been asked to officially open Late Night Shopping,” he said.

“Congratulations to everyone in the community. I think Malmesbury’s community spirit is always to be treasured as there is so much going on, and I feel so proud to be here. Let’s go out and support the local shoppers, let’s have a great time and let’s celebrate everything that is so wonderful about Malmesbury.”

Malmesbury Mayor Cllr Gavin Grant thanked Hugh Pym, event compere Andrew Duncan, and the many others who gave their time to make the event such a success, including volunteers from 9 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps, town councillors and staff, local traders and stall holders.

Cllr Grant said: “This has to be one of the most successful Late Night Shopping events we’ve run, as so many people have turned out to support the traders. It was a wonderful atmosphere and what a great way to start the festive season.”

Entertainment was provided from, among others, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Choir, Malmesbury Choir, Malmesbury Concert Band and Malmesbury Morris.

Winner of the best dressed shop window competition was Emily Hepworth, of High Street florist Persephone Violet, who received a cup from Hugh Pym, with runner up certificates presented to Barn Owl Books and Malmesbury Opticians.

*Photos taken by Robert Peel