HUNDREDS of people enjoyed an early evening of festive fun at Yate's Abbotswood Shopping Centre on Saturday.

Dodington Parish Band played a repertoire of seasonal sounds out in the square, and Wellesley Primary School choir sang a set of Christmas carols.
A bazaar provided opportunities for Christmas shopping, while a street magician kept visitors amused. 

Father Christmas arrived in a police van with flashing blue lights, accompanied by members of the police beat team, complete with gifts for the children.

He then joined the Mayor of Yate, Cllr John Ford in pressing the 'big red button' to light the Christmas tree.

The event was organised by Abbotswood Action Group, St Nicholas Church and Jacobs Well.