FREEZING temperatures did not stop the festive fun at the much-anticipated Christmas In The Link event.

The community celebration in Malvern Link proved a roaring success with former BBC Hereford & Worcester presenter Andrew Easton returning to again perform the traditional Christmas tree lights switch on.

There were plenty of stalls, music, drinks, food, arts and crafts as many shops opened for the Friday evening, showing off sparkling window displays and festive flags.

Maggie Duffield, of the Malvern Link traders, said: "The cold might have put a few people off but it went really very well.

"Everybody threw themselves in and all the helpers were just amazing.

"The kids loved the little snow machine when the lights were switched on and the tombola made a decent amount for our charities."

The chosen charities for the event on December 1 were Community Action Malvern & District, now based in the Link's Worcester Road after moving from Great Malvern, and Worcestershire Animal Rescue.

Malvern mayor Clive Hooper also enjoyed the festivities which were all made possible by the efforts of the local traders following a successful 2022 event.

Cllr Hooper said: "It was great to see people out and about enjoying the stalls and the various activities that were going on.

"We are very grateful to all the traders for all they did to make it such a success as well as our own town council staff.

"It was good to see the local councillors supporting the event and particular thanks go to Cllr Freya Matthews-Jones."

Link Up, a group of Malvern Link traders and members of the community, organised the evening with support from Malvern Town Council, Malvern Hills District Council and Worcestershire County Council.

The emergency services also put in appearances thanks to Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service and Malvern Police.

The fire engine and Peeler the police dog proved particularly popular as a good turn-out provided a vital pre-Christmas boost to the area's local economy which features numerous independent businesses.

Choirs and groups spread festive joy with music while Father Christmas was waiting in his grotto at the Malvern United Reformed Church Hall and London House Cafe hosted a Christmas trail.

Food and mulled wine was served by Sunbeans with children's craft activities also among the attractions.