CROWDS braved the cold last weekend for the return of Burnham's special Christmas event.

Burnham Carnival organised the comeback of the High Street outdoor festive fair, which took place on Saturday.

Hundreds of youngsters and their families enjoyed a range of stalls, fair rides, festive food and drink, and performances from Epic Dance, Serena Grant, Loula Panayi and The Every Voice Choir.

Santa's Grotto, donated by Bistro on the Quay, saw more than 120 children meet Father Christmas.

They were all given a small gift each from the man himself.

The highly popular Essex cosplayers and Blackwater pirates who attended this year's carnival also returned for the festive fair and made for walking entertainment for the children.

In a first for the event, the famous Maldon Grinch made an appearance to cause mischief and raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

He has raised £747 so far from his travels this festive season.

The winners for best shop windows were:

Trade 

  • 1st: Marts-Parts
  • 2nd: Jacaranda
  • 3rd: Unforgettables

Artistic 

  • 1st: Essex Air Ambulance
  • 2nd: Queens
  • 3rd: Topaz

Novelty

  • ​1st: Burnham Osteopaths

Next year's dates for both the festive fair and Burnham Carnival have been confirmed.

Burnham Carnival 2022 takes place on September 24 and the next festive fair is planned for December 3 from 3pm to 7pm.