HUNDREDS of eager shoppers flocked to West Wycombe during its annual festive fayre.

The ancient village was lit up for the occasion as residents from across south Bucks descended upon its High Street to enjoy a tasty treat and buy some Christmas gifts.

All the shops were open until 9pm but snapping up a bargain was not the only entertainment on the agenda.

Barbecues selling hot dogs and burgers lined the streets, chestnuts were roasted on an open fire and the Salvation Army band from High Wycombe serenaded visitors as they strolled past.

Santa also paid a visit to the village during the fayre last night, when he met boys and girls in his grotto at the garden centre in Chorley Road.

Mary Marshall, owner of West Wycombe Village Store, said: “It's a nice way to start the Christmas season. Everybody joins in and it's just a very nice atmosphere.

“If people are working it's quite difficult to get to these sorts of shops in the evening. We try and make it as late in the year as possible.”

Residents throughout the village were encouraged to dress their windows for a decoration competition, which was judged by Lady Dashwood, whose family live in West Wycombe Park.

The village hall, community library and Hell Fire caves were also dressed up for the occasion. Charity stalls set up shop in the hall while visitors to the library could enjoy a hot drink and sweet treat in front of the open fire.

Major Tony Frost, from the Salvation Army band, said dozens of people had stopped to listen as players belted out Christmas tunes to get them in the festive spirit.

“It's really lovely and brings the village together,” he added, “It's a great Christmas atmosphere with lots of people stopping to listen and enjoy the music.”