THOUSANDS got into the Christmas spirit as a popular Victorian market returned to Clacton’s Princes Theatre.

The annual fundraising event was organised by Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST) and more than 2,500 people poured through the doors on Saturday.

There were 32 stalls offering all types of Christmas goodies and other items for sale throughout the day.

Brenda Ellis, chairman of CVST, said: “There was a real buzz about the place, the stallholders did well and everyone enjoyed the excellent entertainment on the stage.

“All in all it was another resounding success.”

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

It is estimated that the various charities who attended the market will have raised more than £10,000 between them.

Entertainment was provided by Alton Park Junior School Choir and Holland Park School Choir on the stage.

Dan Osborne and the rest of the cast from this year’s Princes Theatre professional panto, Beauty and the Beast, performed as well as mingled with the crowds before heading off into town to promote their show.

Tendring Council chairman Mark Platt and his family judged the stalls and Jaywick Bereavement and Friendship Cafe took the top prize.

The award for the best costume on the day was won by the ladies from Creative Expressions who raise money for local charities.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

Father Christmas also made a visit to keep the younger visitors happy and handed out presents.

Mr Platt said: “Community Voluntary Services Tendring put on a fantastic event and the atmosphere was really good,” he added.

“It was really packed and at certain times it was difficult to move about. I am pleased that the charities benefited as they put in a lot of hard work at their stalls.”