Halstead Christmas Fair and switch-on returns with success

Both events have been part of the town for many years and took place on Saturday, with hundreds enjoying the start of the Christmas period.

The fair is organised by Linda Smith, Heather Pittuck, Dave Rosoman and Andy Munday on behalf of Halstead Town Council.

Spider-Man meets the rotary club (Picture: Tony Sale) (Image: Tony Sale)

People flocked in to enjoy the stalls (Image: N/A)

Linda said: “It was a really great day and went really well.

“There were hundreds of people that came along, and the weather was dry and cold, so perfect.

“We started at 10 in the morning. Santa arrived at 10.30am and we had plenty of entertainment like the Hedingham Singers, Vocal Reflections, Dougie the Dino, Amazing Kev with his circus skills, a balloonist, and we had DJ AJ Sounds all day.

"Spidey-Hire also made an appearance - it was great.

Santa and Spidey pose for a picture (Image: N/A)

Santa with Halstead mayor Jackie Pell (Image: N/A)

Dougie the Dino (Image: N/A)

“All the stalls did really well too, some even said they sold out on the day.

“Everyone could then go to the Public Gardens to enjoy the switch-on.

“All in all it was another event really well-supported by all of our residents and community.”

Following the fair, crowds flocked to the Public Gardens to witness the switch-on of the Christmas lights.

Halstead mayor Jackie Pell, with children from each of the three Halstead primary schools - Richard de Clare Primary, St Andrew's Junior and Infants, and Holy Trinity Junior and Infants.

Santa enjoying some shopping (Image: N/A)

A council spokesman said: “Halstead Town Council was pleased once again to celebrate the switch-on of the Christmas lights in the town.

“Santa arrived in his sleigh with children from the three primary schools, and they helped to switch the lights on after a welcome from the mayor, Jackie Pell.

“Thanks are due to Peter Robertson of Halstead Autolelectrical, town council staff and the businesses who have generously allowed the council to use their electricity supply, Holmes and Hills, the Dorrington, Bilsons, Dales, Hardys, Capital Dry Cleaning, Lobbs and the East of England co-op.”