VILLAGERS are being treated to a living advent calendar in the lead up to Christmas.

In total 24 homeowners and businesses based in Castle Hedingham have been chosen to unveil a Christmas themed window on a given day during advent.

Organiser Joy Drury, who lives in St James’ Street, was the first to unveil her window on December 1.

An estimated 40 people are thought to have waited outside Mrs Drury’s home for the unveiling and crowds have also gathered around windows on other days.

Mrs Drury said: “It’s been really amazing so far.

“People have been inviting others into their homes and been so friendly to each other.

“I’m just hoping people will keep on coming along and there will be enough interest to do the tour in a few weeks.

“I am surprised by the effort people are making with their windows.

“There was a lot of pressure to start off with a good window but the standards seem to be getting higher.”

Another spectator at a window unveiling added: “I haven’t met some of our neighbours before and was feeling really anxious but it has been a really lovely project to be involved in.”

A tour of Castle Hedingham is being held on December on 23 where participants will get the chance to view all of the windows unveiled so far. The tour will begin from the Social Club along Church Lane at 3.30pm.

To book your place on the tour, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/castle-hedingham-living-advent-calendar-tour-tickets-41075718580?aff=es2