SNOW will be falling and chestnuts will be roasted during the highly anticipated return of Nailsworth Noel tonight.

After a three year gap the family event returns to the town in all its festive glory on Friday.

People young and old are expected to flock to the unique evening event, which sees the centre of Nailsworth transformed into a winter wonderland for one night only.

Snow Business will be adding the touch of Christmas atmosphere to the town with scattering of fake snow and shops will be staying open late especially.

Festivities begin at 5pm when Santa Claus and his elves will be making an appearance with their real reindeers Dancer and Blitzer at Nailsworth Fire Station.

Families are invited to join the procession on its way from Stroud to Nailsworth and bring Christmas lanterns to light the way for Santa.

The Old Market area will play host a special Christmas market selling stained glass, jewellery, cards, and handmade gifts.

Food stalls will be selling winter treats such as roasted chestnuts and mulled wine.

There will also be Santa’s grotto, a raffle, fairground rides, a hog roast and music from local bands spread over three separate stages.

Organiser Caroline Saturley added: “Christmas trees are going up around Nailsworth in time for the Nailsworth Noel night this Friday, they are only £15 each.

“We have a first lot coming and are all accounted for, but if anyone else would like some, we might be able to another bulk order.

“It would be really fantastic if every shop could have one outside their door, and most have the brackets on their buildings especially for this.

“Let's make Nailsworth sparkle this Christmas.”

All funds raised on the night will be donated to Donkey Sanctuary, Nailsworth Youth Club and Longfield Hospice.

The event runs until 9.30pm and is being organised by a small group of Nailsworth residents and business owners. There will be a park and ride to the town centre from Forest Green as well.

Rovers Coaches will be providing a free coach service up and down the hill to Forest Green all evening, from 5.30-9.30pm.

There will a few stops on the route from the top of Forest Green to Morrison's car park.

There will also be free parking at Wyevale until 9.30pm, Prices Mill from 6pm and Forest Green Football Club until 8.45pm.

Santa’s grotto will be located by Mother Hubbard Country Interiors. The bell ringers will play under the clock tower as he goes by.

Father Christmas will be ready to meet all the children at about 5.30pm.

This year people are asked to nook places. The bookings are available through Daisy Jayne Clothing. To book ring 01453 836835. You can also turn up on the night.

Tickets cost £4 for the first child and £3 for siblings. Santa has asked for all profit to go to Longfield.

For more information visit the Facebook page.