A Christmas extravaganza is set to hit Amersham next weekend with organisers promising it will be the biggest festive event the town has ever seen.

The Amersham Christmas showcase will take place on Saturday December 5 from 10am to 6pm across three roads in Amersham-on-the-hill.

Chris Wilson, chairman of the Amersham Action Group who organised the event, said the showcase was timed to coincide with Small Business Saturday.

Mr Wilson said: “The idea is to showcase not only the town’s small businesses but also its talent.

“We have always had a Christmas lights switch on but I wanted it to be a bit different so I decided to make it a day event.

“I want to create a sort of carnival atmosphere and I hope it is going to be the biggest ever Christmas show that Amersham has seen.

“It is my last year doing it so I want to go out with a bang.”

The event takes place three roads - Woodside, Sycamore and Hill Avenue – featuring three stages and around 50 stalls.

The light switch-on ceremony itself takes place from 7:30pm.

The whole of Sycamore Road will be closed for the event and the top part of Hill Avenue – but Woodside Road will remain fully open.

A key feature of the event will be a ten metres square skating rink – sponsored by local salon Gatsby and Miller – which will be operating throughout the day with all profits going to The Hospice of St Francis.

John Roads, Director of Gatsby and Miller, said: “We believe very strongly in putting something back into the community so we are delighted to be sponsoring the skating rink.

“It’s going to be huge fun for all ages and a perfect way to get into the festive spirit in the run-up to Christmas.”

The rink is located on the forecourt of St Michael’s church, Sycamore Road, with tickets costing £8.