Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing was among those who braved the cold to see in the start of the festive season in Buckhurst Hill.
 
Carol singing helped bring Christmas to Queens Road on Friday evening (December 7) as 12 groups sang carols as part of the event organised by Buckhurst Hill Residents' Society in conjunction with the Town Centre Partnership.
 
The evening began with nursery school toddlers singing and they were followed by the children from three local schools, Churches Together in Buckhurst Hill, Haven House Singers, Sing Immanuel, Note Bene, Singers from the Dance School and more.
 
Many of the shops, which had decorated their windows, opened late with a number offering free hot beverages and food (sausage rolls, chocolate goodies, hot roasted chestnuts).
 
There was also face painting and discount vouchers.
 
The children were entertained by a spectacular Light Juggler (sponsored by the Town Centre Partnership) and some unexpected Pirates of the Caribbean.
 
Later in the evening the adults listened and danced to Gary B, a Neil Diamond sound alike (sponsored by 'Fingertips') at the top of the hill.
 
Father Christmas with his sack of gifts (provided by the Town Centre Partnership) strolled up and down the hill throughout the evening greeting adults and children.
 
Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing said: "It was great to see so many people out enjoying themselves in Queens Road. The carol singers were really good.
 
"I congratulate the residents’ association on organising such an excellent celebration.”
 
County councillor Valerie Metcalfe said: "It’s really good to see the community coming together to promote Buckhurst Hill in this way.
 
"Following on from the Jubilee Day, many residents said they would like to see more activity of this nature in Queens Road, and I think the Buckhurst Hill Residents Society and the Town Centre Partnership did a great job in organising this Christmas event.
 
"I know it will go from strength to strength in coming years.”