FAIRGROUND rides, festive treats and Father Christmas were all at this year's Oxted late night shopping evening.
Last Thursday hundreds of residents braved the cold and wet weather to join in the festivities in Station Road East and Station Road West.
The annual event, which has been running for the past 10 years, is organised by Oxted Chamber of Commerce and offers visitors stalls to shop from, festive food and plenty of children's entertainment.
Chamber chairman Paul Dashwood said: "It is such a fantastic event for families and the community as a whole.
"I really hope everyone has enjoyed themselves, even if the rain has come down on us."
Shoppers were enjoying the evening. Adam Jacobs of Bletchingley said he went to the evening every year.
"I love all the stalls and the atmosphere is just fantastic," the 62-year-old said. "I always have a great time and I try and eat as much of the festive grub as possible because it really puts me in the mood for Christmas."
The Rotary Club of Oxted and Limpsfield volunteered their time.
Lionel Parks from the Rotary club said: "We get involved and man the road closures for the Chamber of Commerce every year. I love to take part because it is such a great way of meeting new people from the community.
"Although I live in Edenbridge, I feel more at home in Oxted. There is such a great atmosphere at this event and I am so glad to be part of it."
Traders told the Mirror they enjoyed staying open late or having stalls in the road because it was a way of meeting their customers.
Louise Jordan, 32, owner of Pamper Chef, said: "I have just set up my own business and it is a great way for shoppers to see who you are and what you do. The night also has a great festive feel to it, despite the rain."
Kiera Roche, 42, was running a stall for Limb Power – a charity that helps amputees to keep active. She attended the event last year as a visitor.
"It was such a great event last year that I thought we should get a stall here this year," she said. "It is a great way for charities and businesses to raise awareness of themselves within the local community."
David Weightman, of Oxted Parish Council, was Father Christmas at JJ's in Station Road West and gave out goodies to children.
Brian Taylor, a 70-year-old committee member for the Chamber of Commerce, said: "The event is a thank you to both the traders and the people who support the businesses.
"Some of the traders might not make any money tonight, but they do it as we have a great sense of community in Oxted."
