THOUSANDS of people packed a traffic-free Minehead town centre for the return of a Victorian-themed Christmas shopping extravaganza on Friday (November 29) which saw the festive lights switched on.

Parking was free all day in Summerland Road, The Station, North Road, and Clanville car parks, courtesy of Minehead Town Council, which encouraged visitors into town for the event.

The town council-led event, held for the first time last year, started with a traditional lantern-making workshop in the Beach Hotel before a lantern-lit procession through the town to Wellington Square, where the lights were switched on outside the old Town Hall.

Road closures were in place to keep cars and other vehicles away as the town centre was transformed into a festive wonderland and street entertainment provided by community performances and artistic displays, choirs, and dancers, as well as a ‘meet-and-greet’ opportunity with Queen Victoria and Prince Albert lookalikes.

Santa stopped off in the Jubilee Cafe, and any children who missed his visit were able to write letters to him by popping into The Cove.

Minehead Methodist Church held a ‘Nativity escape room’ event, and more than 20 crafters held a craft fair in the church in the afternoon selling handmade ‘Christmas goodies’.

Minehead Together Business Association supported the occasion and organised a Victorian town trail with 10 businesses taking part and prizes donated for the winners.

Spokesman and town Cllr Ben Jewell said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to the local businesses for their support this year.

“Not only for staying open and supporting this event, but also by advertising in our programme, and let us not forget the wonderful items and vouchers they donated toward the prize pot to make the trail possible.

“Local businesses are at the heart of our community, so shop local and help keep our high street busy and vibrant.”

Town clerk Ben Parker praised the ‘tremendous support’ of local businesses and organisations which were instrumental in making the event possible.

Mr Parker said: “Their involvement and backing demonstrate the collaborative spirit that makes Minehead such a special place to live, work, and visit.”