EXCITEMENT is building ahead of this year's Victorian Christmas Fayre.

In its 25th year, the event – organised by Worcester City Council – is one of the most successful street fayres of its kind in the Midlands.

The event launches on Thursday, November 30, with a spectacular community carol service at Worcester Cathedral from 4.30pm.

Following this service, the Mayor of Worcester will process from the Cathedral to the Cornmarket, for the official opening at 5.30pm.

The Salvation Army and Worcester Cathedral Voluntary Choir will perform in the Cornmarket, and the opening ceremony will close at 6pm.

For the launch event entertainment stages will be located at Cathedral Square, Bell Square in Crowngate and Friar Street by the Cardinal's Hat. Cathedral Square will also host a big screen and a Victorian-themed area with children’s activities.

For a third year, the popular Gin Lane production will be helping their audience step back in time to the dark world of a Victorian alleyway with its debauched inhabitants, cast out of society due to their unsavory behaviour.

Gin Lane will be performed between New Street and The Shambles on Friday, December 1, from 5pm to 9pm and Saturday, December 2, from 4pm until 8pm.

The Worcester Victorian Fayre wouldn’t be complete without a host of wonderful walkabout entertainers. These lofty fellows have been entertaining crowds since the very beginning of the event in 1992 and organisers are delighted to welcome them back this year for all four days of the event.

Several local school choirs will be performing at this year’s Christmas Fayre – including Nunnery Wood High School and Lyppard Grange, Red Hill, St. Barnabas C of E, Fort Royal and Perry Wood primary schools.

Appleyard Dancers, the Worcester Ukulele Club, the Rock Choir and Worcester Concert Brass will also make an appearance.

For more details visit worcesterchristmasfayre.co.uk