Dom Joly pushes the plunger at market (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Dom Joly pushes the plunger at market

CIRENCESTER Advent Market was once again a roaring success as thousands gathered in Market Place on Saturday.

Throughout the day people of all ages enjoyed Christmas shopping and the various performances on the big stage.

There were bags of interesting stalls and street entertainment, with junior fairground rides and Santa's grotto for the youngsters.

Comedian Dom Joly was also welcomed by event organisers and civic leaders before illuminating the town by turning on the Christmas lights.

He told the Standard, one of many sponsors of the event, his family thought the market was great.

He said: "I always come with my kids and this year is the closest I am going to get to be Father Christmas.

"My daughter asked me why I was turning on the lights and I said it was because I am a celebrity. She said what does that mean!

"It started snowing as well which was nice - but then I realised it was fake."

BBC Radio DJ Vernon Harwood thanked everyone who helped organise the event, not least Cirencester Chamber of Commerce and Cirencester Town Council.

Around one hundred businesses gave their financial support to the market.

Chamber of Commerce president Jonathan Davies said: "The event was a fantastic success - it was a great day all round.

"The Advent Market is a crucial part of the lead up to Christmas in Cirencester now and without everyone pulling together this sort of thing does not happen."