CHRISTMAS well and truly got under way in Malmesbury last week, as the town turned out for the annual Late Night Christmas Shopping event.

Pop-up stalls lined the High Street as residents turned out in their hundreds to soak up the festive fun.

The bells in St Paul’s Tower chimed from 5.30pm to welcome everyone and Father Christmas was in his grotto to greet children.

Charities and community groups joined the traders at the late night market, providing attendees with a golden opportunity to learn more about what is going on in the town.

It was the first time Jenni Tricklebank, of Frolic & Footle, hosted a stall at the event.

Reacting to the experience she said: “The atmosphere was wonderful.

“I definitely got my festive jig on whilst sipping some mulled wine.

“It was great talking about my handmade shades to lots of people. Lovely support from the people of Malmesbury for a very new business, will definitely be back next year.”

Robert Peel was on hand with his camera to capture the atmosphere, taking the photos displayed on this page.

He is currently exhibiting some of his favourite photos of Malmesbury at the John Bowen Gallery in the town hall until December 15.