TOP hats and bonnets are once again the order of the day at this year’s Christmas fayre.

While dressing like a chimney sweep is not required for the punters, there will be plenty of festive bargains and the food treats as Worcester transforms for its annual seasonal fayre.

Running from Thursday, December 2, until Sunday, December 5, the well-trodden city streets will be thronged with stalls selling everything from sweet treats to gifts, in the form of local arts and crafts.

It will be the 18th year the fayre has been held and features street entertainers, music and plenty of festive cheer. This year there will be juggling stilt walkers, a choir and magical dance displays.

Once again, Worcester Round Table will be hoping the aroma of its roasting chestnuts will pull in the crowds, alongside the host of independent traders selling arts, crafts and tasty nibbles. For the first time the Cadbury Wishes Workshop at the junction of Angel Place and Broad Street gives people the chance to design their dream chocolate bar, taste their favourite chocolate mix selection and strike a pose in the photo booth for a personalised photograph.

A spokeswoman for city tourism group VisitWorcester said: “You can make it an exciting day out by combining your visit to the fayre with exploring Worcester’s historic attractions and exceptional range of independently-owned boutiques. Take the weight off your feet in one of the city’s many cafes, pubs or restaurants and enjoy traditional Christmas cheer with a warming cup of mulled wine.”

Familiar favourite the old Victorian carousel will also be whirling around to traditional pipe organ tunes.

And a girl band wearing historic Victorian costumes will also be performing Christmas carols with a differences.

Lady Georgianna will be performing Victorian carols, including Christmas Bells and the Twelve days of Christmas, between 5pm and 8pm on Thursday, December 2 and between 12pm and 3pm on Friday, December 3.

Vocalist Abigail Seabrook said: "We take the music seriously but we know that people really do enjoy seeing us in costume.

“We do wear real corsets and they are surprisingly supportive while singing.

“Having the real kit makes it fun when we play old Music Hall tunes."

The event runs from 4pm and 9pm, on Thursday, 11am and 9pm on Friday, 10am until 7pm on Saturday and 11am until 5pm, Sunday.

For more details see www.visitworcester.com, call 01905 722320 or email events@visitworcester.com.