Get ready for all the fun of the Victorian fair

With thousands of locals and visitors expected to descend upon the Faithful City in search of festive cheer, the final preparations are being made to the Victorian-themed fair, which runs until Sunday.

Angela O’Neill, who is events manager for VisitWorcester – the organisation which runs city centre management, events and tourism in the city – said: “It is the biggest single event in the city’s calendar and the interest in the event this year has been incredible. This is an event to show Worcester off and we are keen to see as many locals turn out to see what is on offer and to help support their local businesses.”

There will be more than 100 stalls at this year’s fair, and visitors and shoppers will also be kept entertained by brass bands, ceilidh dancing, street dancing and school choirs.

The fair will start at noon on Thursday but the official opening will start at 5pm with the procession of lanterns from the Guildhall to the Cornmarket. The fair will be officially opened there by mayor Lucy Hodgson at about 6pm.

A carol service complete with a Bible reading, prayers and a blessing from the Dean of Worcester Cathedral will take place beforehand.

Meanwhile, charity volunteers will be on hand to help visitors take care of their shopping needs at the fair on Saturday.

Twelve charity stalls will be set up in St Andrew’s Methodist Church Hall, Pump Street, from 10am until 4pm.

Hot and cold food and drinks will be available from the canteen, and from 10.30am until noon the St Andrew’s Singers will be performing carols on the staircase to the hall.

Reverend Anne Smith said: “Once again this year we are inviting members of the public to shop, unwind, have something to eat, chat with friends and make use of the loos.”

We previously reported how representatives from Worcester’s twin towns Le Vesinet in France, Kleve in Germany and Ukmerge in Lithuania will be selling food and drink at this year’s fair.