Newbury's Living Advent Calendar kicks off the festivities
The Christmas countdown has begun in this year's Newbury Living Advent Calendar.
Every day this month a festive window will be revealed somewhere in the town and everyone is invited.
The event, which is community run, will be supporting Newbury Soup Kitchen, Loose Ends and Eight Bells for Mental Health.
It began with an unveiling at Willow and Blooms last night (Thursday), with town crier Brian Sylvester helping to ring in the start of advent.
Magdalen Wind-Mozley, one of the organisers, said: “Helen from Willow & Blooms started the countdown from 10 and revealed a beautiful Christmas mannequin — dressed in a gown of grey spruce, conifer and dried honesty, with a satin sash, glittery poinsettia and pretty little songbirds.
“Surrounded by her feathered friends, fairy lights, glistening trees and baubles she is like a little spirit of Christmas.
“Thank you all for coming, what a wonderful turn-out for a truly beautiful window.”
A draw was then held to pick the mannequin’s name, which was Willow, with the lucky person winning a goodie bag.
There's no need to book for any day, you just turn up at the specified time and venue and join in the festive fun.
Businesses, organisations and homes across Newbury will be taking part, each revealing a special window, one by one.
As well as the established favourites returning, there's also some interesting newcomers this year – including Zena, Mint, Beyond the Sons, Floral Beauts, Isabel's Retro and more.
Join the trail and remember to collect a stamp at each visited window because 12 or more means an entry into a prize draw to win a treat.
Return stamped flyers to 33 Gloucester Road, RG14 5JR.