CHRISTMAS has officially launched in Billericay as tens of thousands of people descended on the town for its annual festive market.

Winter sunshine brought out a bumper crowd of more than 20,000 people on Sunday to make the event one of the best in its seven year history.

Families enjoyed the craft and farmers’ markets and continental market positioned along the High Street and were enthralled by a flash mob, which entertained delighted crowds.

The event begun with Santa’s parade through the High Street, led by a pipe band, before he reached his grotto.

Youngsters also enjoyed donkey rides and a small funfair, positioned in the car park.

With live entertainment on two stages, carols in the church and a traditional Christmas fayre, hog roasts and mulled wine, a great atmosphere was generated on the day.

Peter Owen, a member of the Billericay Mayflower Rotary Club, which organised the event, said: “It looks like that we will have more than the 20,000 people we estimated at the event last year - the High Street is absolutely packed.

“Food stalls are having a roaring trade and everyone seems to be very happy and in the Christmas spirit.

“The parade was tremendous - it was the biggest we have had. Rotarians even dressed up in funny outfits.

“The glorious sunshine has brought the crowds out. It’s cold but people are filling themselves up with mulled wine to keep warm.”