Dunmow residents are being urged to support an annual Christmas community event designed to put their town on the shopping map.

The Chamber of Trade promises a feast of festive delights on the evening of Friday, December 11, when the High Street is closed and entertainment takes over.

Attractions include performances by the Thaxted Morris Men, Dunmow Majorettes and the Salvation Army Band.

Children's rides and sideshows lining the High Street will add to the carnival spirit and most of the shops will be open until around 9pm.

"This used to be just about shopping, but is now much more of a community event," said Chamber Christmas committee member, Mike Richards.

"Dunmow has a special identity and it is important to have an event which celebrates that and engenders the Christmas spirit."

Traffic will be diverted from the High Street between 6pm and 8.30pm to make way for the street entertainment, stalls, and a guest appearance by Father Christmas.

It is the 13th annual late-night shopping night.

"It is just a wonderful family event with a really good atmosphere," said Chamber secretary Sue Snell.

"Not many towns can still close their main road for people at Christmas, so it makes us feel a little bit unique."

New attractions this year include Dunmow craft market and a carol service throughout the evening outside the Boars Head.

Shopkeepers will be entering into the festive spirit by dressing up as gangsters and molls from the Roaring Twenties for the themed evening.

Sue Snell, secretary of Dunmow Chamber of Trade, is pictured in the High Street promoting the Christmas fair.

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