THE magic of Christmas has come to Barnards Green.

Traders banded together to make sure that the Barnards Green Magical Christmas had plenty to offer families who visit this centre of independent family-run businesses.

Many business owners offered fantastic prizes in their own in-house competitions to make this Christmas even more special.

Raj Johal, owner of Loco Supermarket, put together a wonderful hamper as did Gary Williams of the Malvern Kitchen Studio, while Just So raffled a lovely handbag and scarf. All the competitions can be entered for £1 per ticket and run until Saturday, December 21.

At the event there were free magic shows, circus skills workshops and  festive balloon modelling.

There were also opportunities to get creative, with pottery decoration and Christmas craft activity tables for younger children, while older ones could make a be-ribboned spiced orange pomander.

Jane Knowles of Barnards Green Traders Association said: “The great thing about all the activities is that money raised will be donated to Malvern Community Hospital, whose matron has asked us to raise funds towards an eye inspection trolley. It’s the traders’ way of saying thank you to the local community that supports them during the year.

“Thanks also go to Malvern Town Council, Malvern Hills District Council and county councillor Lucy Hodgson for their support of the Barnards Green Christmas event.”