THE countdown has begun for a highly-anticipated event in Malmesbury.
Organisers have announced that Malmesbury's popular Christmas late night shopping evening will take place on Friday, December 1.
The town's shops and cafés will be open between 6pm and 9pm for locals and visitors enjoy a festive late night shopping experience.
Retailers will be taking part in a best dressed window competition, so visitors can expect some impressive festive displays.
The High Street will also be lined with dozens of stalls, run by local groups and traders who will either be selling gifts, organising games, or offering food and refreshments.
Children can also look forward to rides and a trip to Santa’s grotto at the Market Cross.
The town hall will also be open, playing host to an indoor Christmas market with more stalls for shoppers to browse around.
The annual event is jointly staged by Malmesbury Town Council and local business promotion group, Malmesbury Town Team.
Organisers hope to secure a celebrity to officially open the evening’s shopping and entertainment.
Chair of Malmesbury Town Team Campbell Ritchie said: “Malmesbury's local businesses are the heart of our vibrant, beautiful town and Malmesbury’s late night shopping is a great opportunity to shop, socialise, enjoy and experience Malmesbury.”
Cllr Kim Power said: “Everyone looks forward to late night shopping!
"This is the start of Christmas for many, the atmosphere is really amazing and there is so much to see and do, including music and entertainment.
"It’s also a great reminder to support our High Street, mostly non-chain, by shopping local.”
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