A few light flakes of snow and frost on the trees gave Farnham’s Christmas Market an extra festive feel on Sunday, December 11.

Thousands of shoppers braved the cold and made the most of the opportunity to prepare for Christmas by buying presents, decorations, food and drink.

“Christmas certainly came to Farnham on Sunday! It was an excellent day for local traders while shoppers and families enjoyed the festive atmosphere and the selection of more than 200 stalls,” said town councillor Kika Mirylees.

Stallholders included local artists and crafters selling homewares, accessories and clothing. Food and drink gifts were also popular while shoppers enjoyed sampling mulled wine and hot chocolate while they browsed.

“I’d like to thank Farnham Veterinary Hospital for being our principal sponsor and gold sponsors Swish Fibre, Abbeyfield and Kidd Rapinet. Their support enabled us to make the market a day to remember,” added Cllr Mirylees.

Street entertainment included brass bands playing festive music which residents and visitors could enjoy while they shopped. In the courtyard at the Bush Hotel there was free face painting and at the Ivy Club, Santa settled into his grotto for the day to hear the Christmas wishes of hundreds of children.

There were also children’s rides and the ever-popular live nativity featuring farm animals and a manger in a stable scene reminiscent of the first Christmas.

Castle Street and The Borough were both closed to traffic for the day, and the farmers’ market in Central car park also did excellent business.

People can continue to enjoy the festivities in Farnham by taking part in the snow window trail.

There are more than 20 windows to find and the chance to win a hamper of items donated by local retailers and businesses.

The closing date for entering the hamper competition is midday on Thursday, December 22.

See www.farnham.gov.uk or pick up a hard copy from the Town Hall in South Street.