VILLAGERS came together to celebrate Christmas in Dedham at its annual festive market at the weekend.

The event takes place on the High Street, with an afternoon full of Christmas-themed fun.

The market kicked off with a performance By Colchester Brass Band at 1.30pm on Saturday (November 30).

Festive - (left to right) Henry Casey, 12, Jake River, 12, Travis Rogers, Emily Skeet and Ruenie Reeves, 13Festive - (left to right) Henry Casey, 12, Jake River, 12, Travis Rogers, Emily Skeet and Ruenie Reeves, 13 (Image: STEVE BRADING) Tiny - Millie the pony being held by Holly Drake as she stands next to Ivy Solocombe, 4Tiny - Millie the Shetland pony being held by Holly Drake as she stands next to Ivy Solocombe, aged four (Image: STEVE BRADING) That was followed by a series of performances from Dedham Choir, Dedham Primary School Choir and morris dancers.

Stalls - the market was littered with a variety of stallsStalls - the market featured a variety of stalls (Image: STEVE BRADING) Prepared - many came out to the market as they prepare for ChristmasPrepared - many came out to the market as they prepare for Christmas (Image: STEVE BRADING) All funds that were raised from the event went towards Dedham Primary School.

Fun - Elizabeth Witt, 2, with dad David on the teacups rideFun - Elizabeth Witt, two, with dad David on the teacups ride (Image: STEVE BRADING) Smiles - Christine Niarchos with her Christmas wineSmiles - Christine Niarchos with her Christmas wine (Image: STEVE BRADING) Children were entertained by a range of activities, and could visit Santa's grotto, and take part in arts and crafts and face painting.

The day involved Dedham businesses and saw many people come down to enjoy the start of the festive season.

Engaged - Maddie Davey, 6, and brother Ron, 6, playing a ball roll gameHole in one - Maddie Davey, 6, and brother Ron, 6, playing a ball roll game (Image: STEVE BRADING) Performance - Morris Dancer take centre stagePerformance - Morris dancers take centre stage (Image: STEVE BRADING) The Marlborough pub, Sun Inn, Essex Rose tea room and Dedham Parish Church all joined in the fun.

Entertained - the crowd watches onEntertained - the crowd watches on (Image: STEVE BRADING) The Christmas market is set to return in 2025.