A BUMPER turnout of more than 10,000 people enjoyed an action-packed Haslemere Christmas Market.

Both the High Street and West Street were transformed, with stalls piled high with tempting festive gifts and mini-fun fair rides thrilling young visitors.

The fun continued inside Haslemere Museum, where Santa held court in his Victorian parlour, and in The Georgian Hotel, which hosted arts and crafts.

Shoppers were entertained throughout the day with live music by the town choir and Haslemere Town Band, plus frequent refreshments stops, including Langham Brewery backing next year’s Fringe Festival and the double decker Cookie Bar raising money for Coins Foundation.

Traffic diversions were in operation and the Hoppa bus service shuttle to and from Wey Hill and Haslemere station reported a record number of passengers.

Haslemere Events co-organisers Melanie Odell and Iain Lynch (see their letter on Page 31) said: “We had a wonderful set of stall holders with a great variety of seasonal offerings and we were delighted to welcome back our regular supporters and pleased to see new faces, particularly the more local and smaller companies, who reported excellent sales.

“We must thank all our local residents and visitors who came out to browse the stalls and local businesses, we hope you enjoyed your day.

“Father Christmas was busy in his regular slot at the museum and our resplendent town crier came out to add to the occasion.”