The chairman of this year's Maldon Christmas Festival is looking forward to providing residents with a "fantastic" evening of festivities this month.

In a statement, Councillor Michael Pearlman said: "I am sure we need some excitement in our lives after lockdown, and I feel this year all the stops have been pulled out to make this a great event."

The festival is set to return to Maldon High Street on Thursday 25 November, after being cancelled last year due to the pandemic.

Councillor David Ogg, the town mayor, will switch on the Christmas lights outside All Saints Church at 5pm, which will be followed by an evening of live music, entertainment and festive shopping.

Councillor Pearlman said: "There will be stalls in the High Street for you to browse between 4pm and 9pm.

"This year, there is a great selection of food and drink, as well as Christmas gifts and crafts.

"Many of the High Street shops will be open for you to browse for those special Christmas gifts.

"There's going to be plenty of music and entertainment for you, including performances by Michael Glaysher from Sun Records as Elvis, Terry Batt as Buddy Holly, John Wiffen as Jerry Lee Lewis, the Sun-Rayz providing backing for Louie B as compere, SMC.TODAY Jukebox, The Big Sing, Dave Norwood, Ash and Sunscreen."

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There will be a wide range of entertainment for children, too.

Councillor Pearlman continued: "Father Christmas will be in his grotto in St Peter's Churchyard during the evening, together with his reindeer.

"There will also be Punch and Judy shows.

"There's a chance you might be able to see Elsa, Princess Anna and Olaf from Frozen, and Mickey and Minnie Mouse on the High Street as well."

There will be free parking from 2pm in all town centre car parks, and a shuttle bus running between Morrison's and the town centre all evening.

Councillor Pearlman added: "I look forward to seeing you on 25th November.

"Have a fantastic time."

For more information, you can visit the Maldon Christmas Festival Facebook page using the link here