Final preparations are under way to transform Wantage into a hub of festive family fun.

Traditional entertainers, musicians and dancers will fill the town centre with Christmas cheer for the annual Dickensian Evening on December 6.

Mr Waite

Wantage Chamber of Commerce chairman Reg Waite, pictured, said: "The market will be filled with lights, music, dancing and an air of festivity."

The event combines street entertainment and late-night shopping with the illumination of the Christmas lights.

A juggling stiltwalker, morris and circle dancers will perform from 5.30pm and music will be provided by Wantage Silver Band and bell ringers.

Special guests will include Father Christmas and donkeys from Island Farm Donkey Sanctuary in Brightwell-Cum-Sotwell, near Wallingford. A children's painting competition will be judged at 7pm in Wantage Baptist Church in Mill Street, and Wantage Silver Band will lead carol singing from 7.30pm. Market Place will be closed to traffic from 4pm.