THOUSANDS of visitors are expected at Worcester's Christmas Fayre, due to start today.

The Fayre, now in its ninth year, takes over several streets, including New Street, Mealcheapen Street and the Cornmarket car park.

More than 100 stalls will be packed with seasonal goodies and the Evening News will also be on sale, with a stand near the School Togs shop.

The Fayre was set to start with a short carol service in the Cornmarket at 5.45pm, followed by the official opening ceremony in one of the city's oldest pubs, The Swan With Two Nicks.

The festivities will run until Sunday, December 2.

Last year's Fayre attracted more than 90,000 visitors, with around 250 coaches descending on Worcester. Visitors also came from Worcester's twin towns of Le Vesinet in France and Kleve in Germany.

New features this year include a Christmas carriage of ghosts a Victorian Santa Claus.