SHOPPERS defied the credit crunch and turned up in their thousands for Worcester’s annual Victorian Christmas Fayre.

Bus loads of visitors from all over the country and as far afield as Devon arrived at the city throughout the weekend.

Organisers say the total number of 100,000 visitors is on a par with last year.

The fayre, which is in its 16th year, started on Thursday and finished yesterday Angela O’Neill, event organiser for Visit Worcester, said: “It has been a happy, safe, family event and we hope that all our visitors have had a very enjoyable experience here in Worcester at the beginning of the festive period.

“I have heard quite a few comments from people saying the quality of the stalls is very good and they have all had a lovely time.

“Although the weather has been very cold it has been kind to us.”

Stalls lined New Street, Charles Street and Friar Street and throngs of visitors browsed for festive goodies.

Handmade gifts, jewellery, clothing and Christmas wreaths were just some of the things on offer.

One stall holder, Una Costain, had travelled from Dorset to sell Fairtrade bags and books from her company Tall Trees “I was here last year and it has been very enjoyable, the customers are all friendly and jolly and Worcester is a nice place,” she said.

Visitor Alan Workman, aged 45, had travelled from Swindon and was enjoying a warming cup of tea.

“We came two years ago and enjoyed it so we thought we would come again,” he said. “Depite the cold, it has been great.”

There were fairground attractions, including bumper cars and a traditional carousel, for youngsters to enjoy. Stalls selling pork baps and hot chocolate with Baileys or whisky also proved a hit.

For the first time this year there were stalls in the High Street, which were also received well.

  • View our picture gallery here