TV star Trevor Peacock, Jim Trott of the BBC's Vicar of Dibley comedy, is to switch on Abingdon's Christmas lights.

The ceremony next Wednesday, is being held alongside a medieval shopping evening.

Children, residents and shop staff will be dressing up as medieval characters for a night of late-night shopping and festivities.

The extravaganza was started by Abingdon Town Council and the chamber of commerce five years ago.

It has grown into a bigger event, and this year, it will include a parade through the town, a mini fair, a spectacular fireworks display, pig roasts and other attractions.

Shoppers will be treated to live street entertainment, including a strolling band, puppet shows, and live music from the Abingdon Town Band. Street artists and entertainers will perform throughout the town centre, and there will be a fun fair. The grand parade through the town centre takes place at 6.30pm.

The lights will be switched on at 6.45pm from the old county hall in Market Place, followed by a fireworks display, laid on by the town council and the chamber of commerce.

Many stores will stay open until 9pm, offering discounts on the night.

Kevin Clare, president of Abingdon Chamber of Commerce, said: "It's a great night for the town.

"Everyone enjoys it. Not only does it raise the profile of the town, it gives traders an opportunity to open late.

"We chose a medieval theme because we felt as we were going into a new era we should have a retrospective theme, appreciating the town's history. Next year we will look at the future."

Story date: Friday 19 November

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