All the magic of the festive season (From Stroud News and Journal)

All the magic of the festive season

THE FINE folk of Minchinhampton are gearing up for the fourth annual Christmas community extravaganza that is the town's Goodwill Evening.

Father Christmas will delight residents of all generations as he takes a stroll through a fir tree lined High Street on the festive evening of Friday, November 19 between 5pm and 9pm.

Magician Timmy Time and a selection of fairground rides will bring sparkles to the eyes of youngsters, while carol singers will provide a traditional soundtrack to the evening's festive fare.

Meanwhile the adults can peruse a host of town shops, including The Herb Pot, for gifts, cards, jams and pickles, Le Midi for French wines and clothes, The Village Sanctuary for health and beauty products and gifts, butchers Taylor & Sons, for meat and mulled wine, M & B Stores and Trumpet Antiques.

Among other heady distractions will be a Christmas Market in the Market House, featuring myriad stalls, stocking such goodies as crafts, clothes and refreshments.

When they have exhausted the delights of the picturesque old town refreshment retreats The Coffee Bean and newcomer The Kitchen await to sate thirsts and gnawing appetites. After the festivities visitors can take refuge from the chill winter night in the cosy confines of The Crown, where entertainment will be on offer.

Leftover proceeds from fundraising events before and after the Goodwill Evening, used to pay for the event, will go to Stroud Hospital League of Friends.

Evening co-organiser Mandy Evans, proprietor of The Herb Pot, said: "This is the fourth year of the Goodwill Evenings and they have been very successful. People seem to enjoy them. We're just hoping for a nice evening for the children and to say thank you to everyone for their custom for the year."

Minchinhampton High Street will be closed for the duration of the event but access will be allowed to Bell Lane.

For more information about the town's Goodwill Evening call Mandy Evans on 01453 731165.