CHRISTMAS is officially coming to Upton-upon-Severn tomorrow (Saturday) with traders planning a packed day of festive fun.

Upton Tourism and Trade Association is throwing its second annual Christmas Extravaganza as a thank- you to residents and visitors alike for their support over the past 12 months.

And they are pulling out all the stops to make it a party to remember, with a packed programme of events and entertainment to suit people of all ages.

The event is running from 10am until 6pm and the Waterfront – now protected by the town’s new multi-million pound flood defences – is set to be a hub for much of the activity.

As well as a farmers market, visitors will be able to enjoy carol singing, mulled wine, mince pies and a pig roast.

At Memorial Hall in Old Street children will be able to meet Father Christmas between 11am and 5pm, while there will also be face-painting and Christmas cake decorating.

Children’s entertainer Magic Bob will be performing between 1pm and 2pm and a raffle will be drawn at 4.30pm.

New Street will be host to a Christmas craft market and Nativity procession while a treasure hunt is taking place around the whole town. To take part, treasure-seekers need to buy a map for £1 from Kings Studio, Cooks Bakery, Value for Money or The Launderette.

Annette Keyworth, chairman of Upton Tourism and Trade Association, is looking forward to a “fantastic” day.

As well as residents, she is hoping visitors from all over Worcestershire will come to town to join in the celebrations and see what Upton has to offer.

“We’re putting on the event as a thank you to all the people in Upton and all the people who come to visit as well,” she said. “It’s to show our support for all the support over the year and the commitment to local shopping.”

Free parking will be available at the Hanley Road public car park.