Ewell Village’s annual Christmas festival proved a big hit again this December with the local community.
On Friday 7th December, Ewell’s High Street was closed to traffic, as local shopkeepers brought a party atmosphere to highlight their wares.
With beautifully decorated festive windows, the shops stayed open late, encouraging people to start their Christmas shopping, at the same time as celebrating the start of Advent. Reverend Dewhurst, the vicar of local church St Mary’s, had a very hard time deciding on the Best Dressed Shop Front!
The air was rich with enticing smells, as stalls selling a variety of foods from roasted chestnuts to cakes, marshmallows and a hog roast, lined the pavements.
Many local charities, such as Shooting Stars and the Rotary Club, were also present, shouting for children to try their hands at a lucky dip, a coconut shy, hoopla and even a Splat the Snowman.
The majority of stalls were being run by children from the Air Scouts, Explorers and Girl Guides; a great experience for the youngsters.
Children also played a primary role in the musical entertainment of the night as well, with carols performed by the choirs of Ewell Grove, Ewell Castle and St.Clements Schools. Other musical highlights included the talented Epsom & Ewell Silver Band with the ever popular Morris Men encouraging audience participation.
Many arts & crafts were for sale, such as beautiful handmade tree decorations and cards, while the local beauty salons ensured there were plenty of stocking fillers on offer as well.
Even the police got involved with the frivolity, encouraging children to sit in their patrol car for an exciting photo opportunity.
The whole evening highlighted how special it is for a community to support each other in such a way. In today’s self-centred world, it was refreshing to see a village come together in a positive affirmation of the Christmas message. Long may it continue.
