MALDON Town Council has unveiled a new name for its this year's Christmas lights switch-on event and market.

Light Up Maldon will be taking place next month, promising to illuminate Maldon High Street with "festive cheer, bustling with street stalls, charming indoor craft markets, and entertainment by local performers".

The event will feature a traditional Santa's Grotto for children, as well as a variety of stalls offering local wares, unique crafts, hot food and beverages.

Town centre shops are being encouraged to expand their presence with stalls outside their premises, alongside opportunities for other Maldon District traders, community groups, and charities.

Craft stalls will fill the Town Hall and the Swan Hotel Bar and Grill's Cygnet Room alongside food stalls.

Maldon town mayor Andrew Lay said, "Light Up Maldon promises to be a celebration for the entire community.

"We're excited to support our hardworking businesses, from established retailers to exciting new ventures.

"Community groups and charities are also warmly welcomed to participate. It will be a night to remember, filled with festive joy and local spirit."

The town council said town centre shops will again be invited to enter the traditional window dressing competition, with details to follow shortly.

Light Up Maldon will take place on Thursday, November 28, from 5pm to 9pm, with the lights switch-on at 6pm.

For further information, or if you would like to volunteer to help out, email administration@maldontowncouncil.gov.uk or call 01621 857373.