CHILDREN'S smiling faces made hours of toil worthwhile for the woman who helped organise the town's late-night shopping weekend.

On Friday afternoon, a funfair rolled into town and traders kept their businesses open until 8pm for seasonal shoppers.

A mini train ride thrilled youngsters and Santa was on hand to meet and greet families.

Droitwich Spa Association for Retail, Tourism and Services (DARTS) organised the event, with support from retailers and Wychavon District Council.

Group spokeswoman Jan Bolton said: "It was a great success and I'm already planning ahead for 2002.

"There was a great atmosphere in town on Friday night -- seeing the kid's smiling faces was wonderful.

"I had many good reports and I think trade was generally good."