Carol singers and residents enjoyed an evening with Santa and his wife to raise money for charity.

A festive parade, featuring the happy couple and singers from Epping Forest College, yesterday raised funds for Oak View School and Chigwell Riding Trust.

Town and District councillor, Leon Girling, organised the event and thanked local companies for helping out.

He said: “It was a fantastic night and we were able to raise awareness and money for the two charities but we’ve not yet managed to count it all up.

“It was slightly different from last year because we added more of a parade to spread the Christmas cheer and hopefully make it feel a bit more of a community event.”

Santa will be making another appearance in Debden in The Broadway at his grotto on December 14.

December 14 will also see a free meal hosted for senior citizens at Epping Forest College.

Shoppers who spend £5 or more in The Broadway will go into a draw for a ticket to the dinner and The Guardian understands there are still plenty of places available.