THE streets of Newton Abbot will be bustling tonight, Wednesday, for the Victorian Evening on the first of the town’s late night shopping events.

The popular Victorian evening and its array of charity stalls gets under way at 5pm.

Late night shopping will continue on the day until 8pm as it will on the following two Wednesdays with a 6pm lantern parade on December 14 and 7pm Mayor’s carol service on December 21, at the Clock Tower.

The special guest for each of the Wednesdays will, of course, be Father Christmas.

After arriving in town on his sleigh he will stay outdoors, greeting visitors and handing out sweets.

His cosy parlour within the Clock Tower will be open for anyone to visit and take a festive fireside selfie if they wish.

Parking in all Teignbridge Council car parks will be free from 4pm each Wednesday although drivers are advised that the multi-storey closes at 6pm.

Another popular event back for this year is the dog-friendly carol service at 12 noon on Saturday December 10.

It’s set to take place in Wolborough Street with families encouraged to bring their beloved canines into town for the occasion.

The day will also feature free street entertainments.

As an extra gift, the town centre will host traditional Christmas music each Saturday throughout December.

Town Development Manager Sally Henley said: ‘We’re so looking forward to seeing our streets bustling with families enjoying the festive period.

‘Newton Abbot Town Council has ensured that as many of the activities as possible are free and I’m also confident that our wonderful shops and traders match or even beat the online retailers on price. They all offer great service which you will not find on line, so please, come into town and see for yourselves.

‘When we say our town is streets ahead of the web we mean it. And remember, Newton Abbot isn’t just for Christmas!’