FRINTON was filled with festive cheer as people turned out in force for the town’s Christmas event.

Connaught Avenue was closed off for the late-night shopping spectacular.

Shopkeepers kept their stores open late into the evening and the street was packed with entertainers, rides and stalls.

Youngsters flocked to a special grotto set up by Frinton and Walton Chamber of Commerce, where Santa was on hand to dish out free presents after parading down Connaught Avenue.

Chamber chairman Wendy Simon said: “The night was brilliant and the atmosphere was fantastic.

“The shops were heaving and it was a big boost for the traders.

“It was a great way to launch Christmas in Frinton.”

An annual competition saw carpet specialist Kevin Pearce crowned as having the top festive window display on Connaught Avenue.

And a new competition, organised by Alan Eldret, saw local schoolchildren create Christmas-themed artwork, with the top efforts being displayed on shop windows on the night.